Authorities Cull 12,000 Birds in Assam Following Deadly Bird Flu Outbreak

Following the unnatural death of 300 birds last week in Assam, and the subsequent confirmation from laboratory tests about the presence of the virulent H5N1 avian influenza strain, nearly 12,000 birds have been culled in the district of Kamrup in Assam.

The task has been carried out by 20 rapid response teams spread over 48 villages in Assam, to cut the spread of infection.

Avian Influenza / Bird Flu-Causes-Symptoms-Treatment- FAQs
Bird flu (avian influenza/avian flu) is a disease caused by an influenza virus (H5N1) that primarily affects birds but can infect humans also.

The local authorities who are performing the culling operations are being assisted by a team from the central health ministry.

Some 48000 birds - chicken and ducks are yet to be culled. This process is expected to take a week to finish. All precautions have been taken to avoid the spread of infection to humans.

The veterinary and animal husbandry department in Assam has sounded an alert in the area. They have embarked on strict surveillance of poultry farms and birds are being monitored to detect potential symptoms of bird flu.

Bird Flu Alert Sounded in Assam
Bird Flu scare in Assam. Nearly 300 poultry birds have died an unnatural death in a few villages West of Guwahati in Assam.

Sale and purchase of poultry is strictly forbidden in the region.

Source-Medindia
SAVITHA/L

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