Costa Rica’s geographical conditions make the country vulnerable to the penetration of avian influenza and Newcastle disease.
According to pathologist Dr. Lissette Urena, these diseases are already in Mexico and Nicaragua, so the passage of animals, such as birds, could have consequences on Costa Rica’s population.
Most avian influenza viruses do not infect humans, but some, such as A (H5N1) and A (H7N9), cause serious human infections.
Newcastle disease, on the other hand, causes conjunctivitis in humans, but it’s usually very mild.
In order to gather all the poultry sector and provide prevention tools against these diseases, the Association of Professional Promoters of avian Sciences (APPCA) organized the National Poultry Day to be held on June, 14th and 15th.
The activities include 38 lectures to educate and update the industry, its managers, technicians and producers.