Bird flu: Culling Ops continue in Pipili; steps intensified for surveillance and prevention, says official

The Odisha Veterinary and Health department officials have now swung into action and intensified culling of chickens after H5N1 strain of avian influenza or bird flu was detected in the Pipili area of Odisha's Puri district.

Senior health officials on Monday informed that surveillance has already been intensified with preventive measures being taken to prevent the outbreak in other parts. The culling of chickens in Pipili is continuing for the third consecutive day.

The Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) of the state were pressed into action after mass deaths of chickens at a poultry farm in Pipili was reported. A veterinary team had collected samples and sent those for testing. Over 19,000 chickens have been culled in Pipili and Satyabadi areas of Puri district.

Health Director Bijay Mohapatra today said that bird flu is not new and we have already taken preventive measures with coordination of the veterinary department and other stakeholders as well.

“Our aim is to sanitise the area where there has been infection as per the guidelines and the process has already started. As it is a viral infection, we are focussing on detection through surveillance. Those, who are working at poultry farms, needs to be aware and maintain personal hygiene, wear masks and avoid source in case of infection. At present, avian influence has been detected in some poultry at a confined place,” said Mohapatra.

Mohapatra further said that the department is alert and keeping surveillance in other places as well. RRT teams from the state, and district are on the ground. There is no need to panic as of now as massive surveillance and preventive measures have been taken. An advisory will be issued by the Veterinary department as poultry is connected to economic activity, he added.

"Bird flu is seasonal and a viral infection. It spreads fast from chicken to chicken and its spread to human beings is very difficult. While there is no reason to get afraid, those working at poultry firms should take all precautions," said Prof Sushant Kumar Dash, head of the poultry science department, OUAT.

Later in the day, Dr Nilakantha Mishra, Director of the Public Health Dept, directed CDMO, Puri, to remain prepared for the protection of human health due to the ongoing outbreak of Bird Flu in the district.