Bird flu outbreak: Authorities intensify bio-security measures, surveillance at city zoo

Following the outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza at the National Zoological Park here, the authorities on Sunday intensified surveillance and bio-security measures at the facility.

According to zoo officials, surveillance teams are conducting inspections of the entire premises twice in a day. Enclosures, water ponds and foraging grounds frequented by migratory birds are being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Health and behaviour of animals are being closely tracked by keepers as well as through CCTV monitoring.

“All zoo staff members have been equipped with protective gear, including gloves, masks, protective suits and shoe covers, to ensure safety and minimise the risk of transmission,” an official statement from the zoo read.

As of Sunday, no new casualties have been reported among water birds or migratory species. However, three painted storks and one black-necked ibis have been separated from the aviary and are under treatment and observation.

So far, six painted storks and two black-necked ibises have died inside the water bird aviary, while four migratory painted storks died in the ponds. Two samples each of painted storks and black-necked ibises were sent to lab. The results confirmed the presence of H5N1 avian influenza.

H5N1 is a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza virus, which is listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a significant zoonotic disease with pandemic potential.