Andhra Pradesh: Bird Flu Outbreak In Nellore, 721 Rapid Response Teams Formed To Prevent Spread

Around 10,000 poultry birds are believed to have died since the outbreak on February 7.

After the officials sent samples of the birds to a lab in Bhopal, they confirmed the presence of H5N1 virus variant.

Source : Special arrangement

A bird flu outbreak has been reported in Nellore of Andhra Pradesh with a significant number of poultry birds succumbing to the H5N1 virus variant since the initial outbreak on February 7. The affected areas, including Chatagutla and Gumalla Dibba village in Kovuru mandal, have witnessed a surge in the death of chicken prompting urgent intervention from authorities.

Around 10,000 poultry birds are believed to have died since the outbreak on February 7.

After the officials sent samples of the birds to a lab in Bhopal, they confirmed the presence of H5N1 virus variant. Following the confirmation, District Collector Hari Narayan convened an emergency meeting with Animal Husbandry Department officials to address the escalating situation. Immediate measures have been instructed to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of chicken shops in the affected areas until further orders.

Additionally, directives have been issued for the scientific burial of dead chickens along with awareness campaigns through gram sabhas in villages to educate residents about preventive measures. The officials have also formed 721 rapid response teams in the state to prevent the spread of infections. Of these teams, 37 teams are working to contain the spread in Nellore.

The Collector also ordered the people to remain vigilant and avoid contact with poultry and report if they suffer from fever or other infections at healthcare centre. 

Last year, bird flu infected birds in certain parts of Kerala.

Type A strains of the influenza virus, such as H5N1, are responsible for causing avian flu, commonly known as bird flu. Avian flu encompasses a range of diseases caused by infections with certain influenza viruses. While these viruses primarily infect birds, they infrequently transmit to humans. However, the H5N1 virus has the capability to infect various types of birds.