The National Centre for Animal Health has warned that a strain of the highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as the bird flu virus, is spreading rapidly across the northern Mediterranean.

The centre said the country is at increased risk for bird flu as the migration season through Libya continues.

In a statement, the center called on farmers breeding poultry inside closed barns to remain alert and follow biosecurity procedures and veterinarian's instructions.

Meanwhile, open poultry farms also urged assistance to quarantine birds inside closed spaces, saying they need to prevent wild birds from mixing with poultry or reaching drinking water and fodder used in farms.

The statement also called on breeders and veterinarians to immediately report any wild birds die-offs and diseases or any suspected cases in poultry pens.