Odisha confirms bird flu outbreak in Khordha, Health teams deployed

In a concerning development, bird flu (Avian Influenza) has been confirmed in Mundaamba village under Khordha district of Odisha. The outbreak was detected after several poultry birds died mysteriously at a private poultry farm in the area over the last few days. 

Suspecting a possible infection, veterinary officials collected samples from the dead birds and sent them to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.

Lab test reports from Bhopal have confirmed that the samples tested positive for the bird flu virus. Following the confirmation, the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department has taken swift containment action. Eleven rapid response teams have been deployed to the affected area, and a one-kilometer radius around the epicenter has been declared a surveillance zone.

As part of containment efforts, culling of infected and potentially exposed birds has begun within the designated zone. Surveillance and biosecurity measures are being strictly enforced to prevent the spread of the virus. Movement of poultry and poultry products has been restricted in the region.

Officials are also conducting awareness drives to educate villagers about the symptoms of bird flu and the need for prompt reporting of unusual bird deaths.