New Delhi: Bird Flu is spreading across the nation, ten states – Maharashtra, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand – have confirmed Avian Influenza cases so far.

States have been asked to build awareness among the public and avoid the spread of misinformation. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying said in a statement, "States/ UTs have been requested to increase surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos, poultry farms, etc. along with proper disposal of carcass, and strengthening of biosecurity in poultry farms."

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Officials have also tried to allay fears of those consuming poultry products, saying there is no risk of infection from fully cooked chicken, or boiled and cooked eggs as the virus cannot withstand high temperatures.

According to a PTI report, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister Giriraj Singh said there have been no scientific reports on transmission of bird flu to humans and consumers should not be scared and ensured that those who consume chicken can do so after cooking it properly.

States on alert

  • Uttar Pradesh has been declared a 'controlled area' in view of outbreak of Bird Flu in Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The state government has imposed complete ban on the import of live birds into the state.

  • Jaipur has closed the zoo, while the flu has spread to at least 16 districts so far in Rajasthan.

  • Gujarat has issued SOPs, according to which, it is compulsory for all personnel during Save Bird ‘Pakshi Bachao’ / Karuna Abhiyan to wear disposable PPE suits and hand gloves and must follow the existing Covid-19 protocols like social distancing and wearing masks.

  • Delhi has imposed a complete ban on the sale of processed and packaged chicken brought from outside the city after testing of samples of crows and ducks confirmed bird flu cases.