Philippines OKs commercial use of avian influenza vaccine for poultry

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is now allowing the commercial use of avian influenza vaccines to curb the spread of avian flu on poultry. 

In a memorandum circular released by the Department of Agriculture, the vaccination program would "preempt" potential bird flu outbreaks in "highly" vulnerable areas to avoid substantial economic losses.

The said guidelines were signed on November 3. 

Depending on the virus’ risk, the DA identified the priority groups for the vaccine use.

The DA also said that the two types of vaccination are the protective emergency and preventive vaccination. The kinds of vaccines allowed, on the other hand, are vector vaccines, killed/inactivated vaccines and recombinant vaccines.

The following avian types are eligible for vaccination: 

• commercial layer chicken
• layer breeder
• broiler breeder
• colored/free-range breeder
• grandparent broiler breeder
• small-hold layer/native chicken
• duck
• game fowl
• turkey
• goose

However, commercial broiler chicken, small-hold broiler, quail, pigeon, and exotic birds are not eligible for the vaccine. 

The bird flu has affected the world supply with over 131 million poultry killed according to the World Health Organization.

Bird flu outbreaks in the country frequently lead to substantial losses for poultry owners and farmers, causing a significant economic impact. The recurring nature of these incidents has made bird flu a recurring challenge for the nation's poultry industry.