Appreciation for cooperation following confirmed H5N1 Avian Influenza Case

Dear Farmers,

I want to begin by sincerely acknowledging the role you played following the recent confirmed case of H5N1 Avian Influenza in Grand Cayman, and to thank you for the calm, responsible manner in which you responded.

Once the case was identified, farmers across the Islands responded promptly and responsibly, working closely with the Department of Agriculture to determine whether the virus had spread beyond the initially affected location. Through this coordinated effort 31 farms were engaged, and no further evidence of Avian Influenza was found during surveillance and testing. All other farms remain unaffected and continue to operate while adhering to established biosecurity requirements, including those set out within the National Egg Strategy (NEST) programme and related Department of Agriculture protocols.

The affected farm has completed the mandatory 21-day quarantine period and is no longer under quarantine. The Department of Agriculture has continued to work closely with the farm, providing support and conducting follow-up monitoring to ensure all biosecurity and containment measures are maintained in accordance with public health requirements.

Your swift cooperation and adherence to guidance have been critical in supporting early containment and risk mitigation. These actions have not only protected animal health and the agricultural sector, they have also played an important role in safeguarding the health and safety of the wider Caymanian public, while maintaining confidence in local food production.

I recognize that responding to an incident of this nature requires heightened vigilance and, at times, difficult operational adjustments. Your willingness to act responsibly and in the best interest of the wider community reflects a strong sense of shared responsibility and pride in the work you do.

On behalf of the Government and the people of the Cayman Islands, I thank you for your continued partnership, diligence, and leadership. By continuing to work together and remaining vigilant, we are safeguarding our farms, our livelihoods, and our communities.

Hon. Jobany “Jay” Ebanks, JP

Minister of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure