Nine migratory birds have been found dead in the Delhi Zoo over the last one week due to H5 virus, which causes avian influenza, or bird flu. Delhi Development Minister Gopal Rai said that the government is taking all necessary measures to check the threat of bird flu in the city even though there is "no immediate danger". "There have been some deaths of migratory birds reported due to H5 virus in Delhi Zoo. But there is no alarming situation. Government is taking immediate pre-emptive actions," Rai said.
‘Delhi Development Minister Gopal Rai said that the government is taking all necessary measures to check the threat of bird flu in Delhi.’
His remarks came after he visited the Delhi Zoo to review the situation. Rai said that six rapid response teams have been formed and sent to possible spots from where the influenza virus can spread in the city including bird sanctuaries and poultry markets.
"A team each has been sent to Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Nizamuddin (where sale and purchase of poultry happens), Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Najafgarh drain and Ghazipur poultry market," Rai said. "One such team has been posted in the Delhi Zoo to consistently monitor the situation."
The Delhi government has also started a helpline number (011-23890318) to report cases of bird flu and seek help.
"The Delhi Zoo was on Tuesday, Pctober 18, 2016, ordered to be closed for three days by the central government authorities. After three days, the review of the situation will be done and a decision to re-open it will be taken," Rai added.
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"At our level, we are discussing all precautions as well as need for medical preparedness in case of an outbreak," Rai said.
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Rai informed that another migratory bird was found dead on Wednesday, October 19, 2016, taking the total count to 10.
Source-IANS