Bird Flu outbreak in Jharkhand: 1800 chickens and 1697 eggs disposed of

Mail News Service

Ranchi, April 25: Following the confirmation of bird flu in Hotwar, Ranchi, authorities have imposed a ban on the purchase and sale of live or dead chicken products and eggs within a one-kilometer radius of the affected area. Approximately 1800 hens and four hundred ducks were reported in Hotwar.

Sanath Pandit, Director of Animal Health Institute, Kanke, stated that a team has been formed under the supervision of the District Animal Husbandry Officer to dispose of the infected birds safely. The process of disposal is currently underway, and precautions are being taken to prevent further spread.

Dr. Ganesh Ram Mahali, assistant manager of the regional poultry farm, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about bird flu and advised against consuming chicken to reduce the risk of infection. He reported that 1697 eggs and 1800 birds have already been disposed of, and the entire farm is being sanitized. Additionally, no new birds will be brought in for the next three months.

Health experts have urged the public, especially children, to take precautions to prevent bird flu infection. Dr. Manoj Kumar, Head of the Microbiology Department at RIMS, warned that while the virus primarily affects birds, humans can also be infected. Bird flu spreads through contact with infected birds and poses a significant risk to public health.