Be prepared: Centre to states on avian flu

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, January 7

The Centre today asked all states to be prepared for any eventuality in case the bird flu spread across the country even as it said the infection was yet confirmed only in Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh yet.

States have been told to spread awareness among people about the safety of poultry product consumption and recommended adequate boiling procedures. The government has also said states must ensure sufficient stock of personal protective equipment kits and accessories required for culling operations.

Top officials in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying met with states today to understand the status of the outbreak of avian influenza (bird flu).

An unusual mortality of poultry, crows and migratory birds has been reported from Kerala, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.

The disease has so far been confirmed only in four states — Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh and culling operations are underway in the affected districts of Kerala, a government statement said.

At the meeting, it was emphasised that besides increasing surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos and poultry farms, proper disposal of carcasses and biosecurity around poultry farms should be ensured.

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