Bird Flu linked to migratory birds coming into India, Union Ministry issues advisory

NEW DELHI

With the spread of bird flu across various locations in India, the Union ministry on January 6 issued advisory warning to all the states to put in place proper containment measures.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh through a PIB release informed that the Avian Influenza (AI) viruses discovered recently are linked to the migratory birds coming into India during the winter months.

The government has accordingly prepared an action plan for prevention and control of Avian Influenza in the country, though there is no evidence of human transmission till now.

The minister said, ‘There is no direct evidence that AI viruses can be transmitted to humans via the consumption of contaminated poultry products, implementing good management practices is effective in controlling the spread of the AI viruses”.

The advisory issued by the Animal and Husbandry department to contain the spread of the flu recommends biosecurity of poultry farms, disinfection of affected areas, proper disposal of dead birds/carcasses, secluding the affected birds.

The government also recommended the neighbouring states to keep vigilance towards unusual mortality among birds and report the matter to the nearest control centre.

(Edited by Shankar Kumar Turha)