AVIAN INFLUENZA (54): INDIA (ANDHRA PRADESH) POULTRY, H5N1, SPREAD
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Date: Fri 14 Feb 2025
Source: The Times of India [edited]
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/andhra-pradesh-on-alert-as-bird-flu-spreads-to-new-areas/articleshow/118233499.cms
Avian influenza has been reported from 7 locations across 5 villages
in Andhra Pradesh, with the disease spreading to new poultry farms in
Eluru, NTR [see the commentary below. – Mod.PKB], West Godavari, and
other districts. The state is on high alert as the virus has affected
multiple regions.
The [avian influenza] virus has been detected in a domestic duck farm
in Kurnool, 3 poultry farms in Kanuru in East Godavari district, one
farm in Gampalagudem in NTR district, a poultry farm in Velpuru in
West Godavari district, and a farm in Badampudi in Eluru district.
These outbreaks have triggered extensive monitoring and containment
measures.
In response, the state government has mobilized its official
machinery, declaring 5 containment zones to limit the spread of the
disease. Vigilance in these zones is crucial, and authorities are
working to control further transmission. To date, approximately 5.20
lakh [520 000] fowls have died due to the outbreak.
Amid the situation, there were rumours of a human case of avian
influenza in Eluru district. However, officials have clarified that
there has been no human case of [avian influenza]. A team from the
local health department visited the village and confirmed that the
rumours were false. West Godavari district collector Vetri Selvi urged
residents to remain calm and not believe such unverified reports.
Animal husbandry director T Damodar Naidu confirmed that culling
operations have already begun to prevent the spread of the disease,
with about 1.50 lakh [150 000] birds culled thus far. Additionally,
concerns had been raised regarding the disposal of dead birds. Naidu
explained that chicken litter is a common practice to feed fish, with
some people reportedly dumping dead birds in fish tanks. Authorities
are investigating the situation to ensure proper disposal protocols
are followed.
As the state grapples with the ongoing [avian influenza] outbreak, the
government continues to focus on containment and preventive measures.
Public awareness campaigns have also been initiated to inform people
about safe handling practices for poultry and the importance of
following official guidelines.