More than 23,000 chickens have died in the three Albanian counties affected by the flu, in the span of one day alone, bringing to 832,000 the number of those who have died since March 7, when the first signs of the disease was confirmed almost two weeks ago.

This figure was made public by the Ministry of Agriculture in Thursday's report. In conditions where the virus has become widespread by affecting some of the main facilities supplying eggs across the country, all effort has already been limited to isolating H5N8. So far, there are three outbreaks of bird flu, specifically in Durrës, Dibra and Korça.

In a press release, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Ermira Gjeci, drew the attention of traders of live poultry in open spaces, prompted by television chronicles that showed the opposite in some cities of Albania.

"It is important for traders and the public to know that the order to take restrictive measures to prevent avian influenza in open spaces and live animal markets is in force. This order will be implemented in the three regions where the outbreak of the disease has been confirmed: Durrës, Dibër, Korçë. "The order prohibits the sale and trade of live birds in open spaces and live animal markets in these counties, as well as the movement of live birds from farm to farm and from farm to live animal markets", underlined Gjeci, while adding that it has the cooperation of the Police, mayors and mayors to stop attempts to violate the law, thus sharing responsibility with them.

In the meantime, Durrës Prosecution has registered the criminal investigation for companies and public officials. Investigations are underway following allegations of breach of bird quarantine rules at the infected outbreak and abuse of office by officials who appear to have allowed chickens and eggs to be marketed with H5N8.

Cross-examinations that are said to have started on Monday, March 21 in some poultry houses of the coastal city have requested information on the time when the first case was ascertained and whether or not the relevant bodies have been informed.

The Prosecution has asked the Police to seize documents on the practice that has been followed after the cases found for the death of birds. The Ministry of Agriculture ascertained the first case on March 19, announcing it a day later in the media.