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Death of Peacocks Near Ludhiana Not Due to Bird Flu: Report

by VR Sreeraman on Jan 13 2008 2:32 PM

A report has appeared in a section of the media that avian flu was suspected in death of 11 peacocks at Ladhowal forest area near Ludhiana.

It is clarified that the death of birds as reported was not due to avian influenza (bird flu). Details are as follows: -

The samples from peacocks were sent to the High Security Animal Disease Laboratory (HSADL), Bhopal. The laboratory has indicated that the samples collected from peacocks are negative for avian influenza. However, another set of samples submitted for toxicological examination reveal presence of pesticides.

No outbreak of the disease is reported in the country after the last outbreak in village Chingmeirong, East Imphal district, Manipur on 25th July 2007. The disease was restricted to a small unit in East Imphal district without further evidence of spread based on clinical and virological investigations. India achieved freedom from disease on 7th November 2007. This has been notified to OIE in accordance with international obligations.

Following are the features of control and containment of avian influenza outbreak in the country: -

· Culling of entire poultry population in the zone of 0-10 kms/0-5 kms.

· Immediate compensation for birds killed in operations.

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· Continuous strengthening of preparedness to tackle any future eventuality in terms of upgradation of laboratories, training of manpower, stockpiling of materials for control and containment etc.

· Sensitization of general public on Avian Influenza through IEC campaigns.

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· Transparent approach towards reporting not only outbreaks but also information of unusual sickness/mortality in poultry and results of laboratory diagnosis.

Appreciation of India’s efforts by organizations like United Nations (UN), Asian Development Bank (ADB), World Health Organization (WHO) and World Bank (WB).

Source-PIB
SRM /B


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