Bird flu confirmed in Delanga in Puri district; over 6,000 chickens to be culled today

The presence of bird flu has been confirmed in Delanga in Puri district, after laboratory tests detected the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Health officials have traced the infection to Bada Ankula village, which has now been declared the outbreak’s epicentre.

According to reports, culling of poultry will be carried out within a one-kilometre radius of the epicentre. Surveillance has also been extended to a 10-kilometre zone around the culling area. All chicken shops falling within this 10 km radius have been ordered shut until further notice.

Villagers unaware of cause behind poultry deaths

As per reports, it has been over two weeks since the poultry deaths were first observed. However, local residents were unaware of the cause or any potential risk associated with the deaths. Once they became aware of the possible reason, they alerted the animal husbandry department. Blood samples were subsequently collected on July 9, and the presence of bird flu was confirmed on Friday night.

Report from Bhopal sparks immediate response

Confirmation was received from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal. Following the report, the administration began implementing containment measures. Culling of more than 6,000 chickens is scheduled to take place on Saturday as part of efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

Farms and shops under close watch

Officials are maintaining strict vigilance over all farms and poultry shops located between 0 km and 3 km from the epicentre. Five Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) have been deployed to conduct surveys and raise awareness among poultry owners and sellers. The teams are expected to assist in enforcement and ensure all guidelines are followed in the high-risk zone.