The message claimed that chicken were being destroyed for disposal in Valdor near Nibong Tebal which is known for having a large chicken and pig farming industry. There are over 200 chicken farms in the state.
State Veterinary Services Department (DVS) director Dr Siti Salmiyah Tahir said the particular image making its rounds with the message had been “recycled” many times by irresponsible quarters.
She said the department was on high alert for any poultry being brought from Kelantan or other states affected by the Highly Pathogenic Asian Avian Influenza A (H5N1) outbreak among birds, by conducting road blocks at all entry points to Penang.
Siti Salmiyah said the problem in Kelantan originated from free-range birds (kampung chicken) while the chickens reared in Penang were commercial types which were disease-free, and strictly regulated and vetted.
“Penang’s chickens and eggs have been certified safe. If there is a problem, DVS will be the first to inform the public, followed by the Health Ministry,” she told FMT.
“There are also no reports from farmers that there is a problem. I just met the Valdor farmers last night and there was no issue.
“Please rely on genuine sources and not spread fake messages,” she said.
Last week, the Kelantan government declared the H5N1 outbreak as a state disaster after the disease spread to two more districts, Bachok and Pasir Puteh, after hitting Kota Bharu and Pasir Mas.
The H5N1 virus, which infects birds, was first detected in Kampung Pulau Tebu, Tunjong in Kota Bharu, on March 6 after a number of free-range chickens died.