Avian Influenza risk in Semarang

Avian Influenza Prevention Guide for Semarang What is it: Avian influenza (bird flu) is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can spread to humans through close contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments. In rare cases, it can cause severe respiratory illness and death in people. Why Semarang is at risk: Semarang scores 67 out of 100 for avian influenza risk due to several local factors. The city has a high density of backyard poultry farms and live bird markets where traders, buyers, and birds interact daily. Traditional wet markets in areas like Jatingaleh and Pedurungan see heavy poultry traffic with limited sanitation. The tropical climate keeps the virus viable longer in humid conditions. Many households in North Semarang and Genuk keep chickens and ducks in close living quarters, increasing human exposure. Limited access to personal protective equipment in informal markets also raises transmission risk. Prevention steps: 1. Separate your birds from your home. Keep poultry in enclosed coops at least 3 meters from living areas. Never let chickens or ducks enter kitchens or sleeping rooms, especially if children are present. 2. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after every contact with poultry, eggs, or bird waste. Use hand sanitizer when soap is not available. This single habit reduces transmission significantly. 3. Cook all poultry and eggs completely before eating. The virus dies at 70°C. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked chicken dishes, including traditional half-cooked preparations sometimes sold in local markets. 4. Report sick or dead birds immediately to the nearest animal health office or Semarang's Livestock and Animal Health Agency. Do not sell, eat, or bury dead birds yourself. Early reporting helps contain outbreaks before they spread to neighboring areas. 5. Wear gloves and a mask when handling birds in markets or during culling. If you work in live bird markets, request protective equipment from market management and change clothes before returning home.