The Ministry of Environment and Infrastructure of that southern Brazilian state has closed the zoo to visitors since the deaths of the animals due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1), reported on May 13, and it remains closed until further notice.

Rio Grande do Sul has installed sanitary barriers against bird flu and monitors vehicles on the roads. With the confirmation of the disease, the area in Montenegro was isolated, and the remaining birds were culled.

The ministry warns that the disease is not transmitted through the consumption of poultry or eggs; however, they stated in a statement that “The Brazilian and global population can rest assured regarding the safety of controlled products, without restrictions on their consumption.”

The risk of human infection with the avian influenza virus is low and, in most cases, occurs among handlers or professionals with close contact with infected birds (live or dead).

Health authorities indicated that they have taken the measures outlined in the national contingency plan.

The goal is to restrain the disease, guarantee food safety, and avoid any impact on production.

For the time being, the government has informed international organizations and the country’s trading partners about the incident.

To date, at least nine destinations, including Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, and South Korea, have suspended the purchase of chicken from Brazil.

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