At least 17,000 chickens and quails were culled in Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh after the avian influenza (bird flu) was detected at a state-run poultry farm. This action follows the detection of the H5N1 virus, which has led authorities to impose stringent measures to contain the outbreak.
The first signs of the outbreak came when several chickens were found dead at the poultry farm located in Chakradhar Nagar. Samples were sent for testing to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal, which confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus late Friday night. In response, Raigarh Collector Kartikeya Goel convened an emergency meeting with senior officials to address the situation promptly.
Swift Action to Prevent Spread
Following the confirmation of bird flu, a joint operation was launched overnight by personnel from the municipal corporation, veterinary, and health departments. In a coordinated effort, approximately 5,000 chickens, 12,000 quails, and 17,000 eggs and poultry feed were destroyed to prevent further contamination. Authorities worked to ensure that the situation was controlled before sunrise and that the infection did not spread beyond the affected area.
The farm has been sealed, and the surrounding areas have been placed under strict surveillance. A 1 km radius around the farm has been designated as an ‘infected zone’, while a 10 km radius has been declared a ‘surveillance zone’. Within the infected zone, all poultry birds, eggs, and feed are being destroyed, and the movement of these items has been completely banned.
Precautionary Measures and Compensation
In line with the protocols, the animal husbandry department has assured compensation to poultry farm owners affected by the culling. Additionally, poultry and egg shops within the surveillance zone will remain closed to curb the spread of the virus.
While no cases of human infection have been reported, Dr. Bhanu Patel from the Raigarh health department emphasized the need for vigilance. “The bird flu virus primarily affects birds and animals, and there have been no instances of human transmission in India. However, it’s crucial for people to stay alert for flu-like symptoms and seek medical attention if needed,” he said.
The health department has initiated a door-to-door survey within the 1 km radius of the affected farm to ensure any individuals with flu symptoms are promptly treated. Dr. Patel urged residents to remain cautious and visit the nearest health center if they experience symptoms such as fever.
Key Measures Taken:
- 17,000 chickens and quails culled at affected poultry farm.
- 1 km ‘infected zone’ and 10 km ‘surveillance zone’ established.
- Poultry, eggs, and feed destroyed in the infected zone, with movement banned.
- Poultry and egg shops closed in surveillance zone.
- No human infections reported, but health teams are conducting door-to-door surveys.
