New Delhi: Authorities in Indore, Madhya Pradesh is on an alert after the avian flu virus was detected in around 50 dead crows in the city.  According to a report by PTI, the virus was found in the carcasses of the birds that were found in the city three days ago. The authorities have now launched a drive to identify those with suspected flu symptoms in the area.


"Nearly fifty crows were found dead on the campus of Daly College on Tuesday. Some of the carcasses were sent for tests to Bhopal. They were found to be carrying the H5N8 virus," said Indore Chief Medical and Health Officer Poornima Gadaria in the report.

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This development comes days after a large number of crows were found dead due to avian flu in the area around Radi in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar. A report by ANI says that a Rapid Response Team was constituted for sampling and probe. The authorities also imposed Section 144 in the affected areas.

“Section 144 imposed in the affected area in Radi. Rapid Response Team constituted to collect samples from poultry farms there. “If bird flu is found to have infected poultry in a chicken farm then the chickens will be culled and suitable compensation will be given,” said Ngikya Gohain, Jhalawar Collector, in the report.

The administration also planned to collect samples from poultry farms and poultry shops in the area closed temporarily.

Know more about Avian flu

Avian flu or bird flu is caused by infection with avian flu Type A viruses which occur naturally among wild aquatic birds. The virus can also infect poultry and other bird and animal species. Although usually, this virus does not affect humans, an infection can occur if the virus is inhaled. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), common symptoms include fever, cough followed by symptoms of lower respiratory tract involvement including dyspnoea or difficulty breathing. Sore throat is less common. Other symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bleeding from the nose or gums, encephalitis, and chest pain have also been reported.