Bilaspur, March 26
An outbreak of Avian Influenza has been reported at a government poultry farm in Bilaspur, prompting authorities to take swift containment measures. Officials confirmed on Thursday that a total of 22,808 poultry birds have been culled to prevent the spread of the infection.
In addition, 25,896 eggs and nearly 79 quintals of poultry feed were scientifically destroyed as part of the containment protocol. The outbreak was detected in the Koni area, where around 4,400 chickens died between March 19 and March 24.
Following confirmation of bird flu, the animal husbandry department formed a rapid response team under the supervision of senior veterinary officials. Movement of poultry and related materials in the affected zone has been completely restricted.
Authorities have declared a one-kilometre radius around the infected farm as an “infected zone” and a 10-kilometre radius as a “surveillance zone.” An alert has been issued across the district, and poultry farmers have been advised to remain vigilant as surveillance efforts intensify.
A dedicated control room has been set up at the district collectorate to monitor the situation round-the-clock. Residents have been urged to report any unusual poultry deaths and avoid spreading rumours.
Health officials are also monitoring poultry farm workers, with testing and antiviral treatment arrangements in place if required. So far, no cases of human infection have been reported.
Authorities said that timely intervention is expected to contain the outbreak and have appealed to the public to stay cautious but not panic.
