Alert issued for bird flu in four states; patients' birds and chickens should be closely observed

After America and Australia, cases of bird flu have been reported in four states of India. Due to this, the Directorate General of Health and the Ministry of Animal Husbandry of the Central Government have asked the states to keep government and private hospitals on alert. Also, instructions have been given to immediately stock antiviral medicines (Oseltamivir), PPE kits, and masks.

In these joint instructions of the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), the states have been asked to monitor the unusual deaths of domestic birds/chickens. Apart from this, the Center has ordered the investigation of slaughterhouses, and poultry farms along with sewage and water bodies. According to the country's Director General of Health, Dr. Atul Goyal, the infection has been confirmed in poultry farms in Nellore in Andhra Pradesh, Nagpur in Maharashtra, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta in Kerala, and Ranchi district in Jharkhand. The relief is that no human has been reported to be infected so far. Bird flu cases have been reported in India since 2006, but since March, cases of avian influenza virus (bird flu) have been found in many countries, due to which it is very important to make preparations in time.

States are instructed to notify hospital staff members and private physicians about avian influenza cases so that they can recognize the symptoms and signs of the illness in patients. States have also been informed that any suspected case of avian influenza may need to be handled in isolation wards in hospitals designated specifically for that purpose, should it be confirmed in birds.

The Centre has requested a thorough assessment and asked the states to strengthen biosecurity measures in zoos, poultry markets, and other establishments. Examine the biosecurity of each chicken farm in detail and limit access for authorized individuals. It is recommended to follow strict hygiene protocols and use disinfectants and protective gear. It's important to take precautions to keep domestic poultry safe from wild birds.

Hospitals are to keep a close eye on critical respiratory patients who are arriving at the outpatient department or emergency room, per a directive from the Directorate General of Health. Right away, the patient needs to be placed in isolation if there is any suspicion. Delhi has to receive this information from the state governments. As soon as samples are collected for testing, states are required to notify DAHD and MOHFW.