Avian Influenza – State Issues Alert After Crow Death Reports
Avian Influenza – Concerns over a possible spread of avian influenza have prompted state authorities to step up preventive measures following reports of an unusual number of crow deaths in several areas. In response, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries has circulated detailed guidelines aimed at containing any potential outbreak among poultry, wild birds and people.
Health Department Urges Vigilance
At the same time, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has released a public advisory calling on residents to remain cautious. Officials have asked individuals to seek immediate medical care if they experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, cold or difficulty breathing, particularly if they have recently handled birds or visited areas where bird deaths have been reported.
Health authorities stressed that early diagnosis is critical in preventing complications and limiting further transmission. They have also encouraged the public not to ignore mild symptoms if there has been possible exposure to infected birds.
Special Advisory for High-Risk Groups
The government’s advisory places particular emphasis on individuals working in slaughterhouses, poultry farms and live bird markets. These groups are considered to be at higher risk due to their frequent contact with birds. Workers have been instructed to follow strict hygiene practices and use protective gear when handling poultry.
Members of the public have been urged to report any unusual pattern of bird illness or sudden deaths to the animal husbandry department without delay. Officials believe timely reporting can significantly reduce the chances of a wider outbreak.
Surveillance Intensified Across Districts
Animal husbandry officials have directed veterinary teams and field staff to enhance monitoring activities in both rural and urban areas. Surveillance efforts now include close observation of crows, migratory birds and domestic poultry for any signs of sudden illness or increased mortality.
Veterinarians have also been advised against conducting post-mortem examinations in open spaces. Instead, bird carcasses must be transported safely to designated Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratories for scientific testing. Authorities say this step is necessary to avoid environmental contamination and accidental exposure.
Safe Disposal Measures Enforced
To prevent further spread of infection, strict instructions have been issued regarding the disposal of dead birds. Carcasses must either be incinerated or buried at sufficient depth to ensure that scavengers cannot access them. Officials have warned residents not to touch dead birds with bare hands under any circumstances.
If handling a carcass becomes unavoidable, gloves should be worn and hands washed thoroughly with soap and water afterward. These precautions are intended to minimize the risk of transmission from birds to humans.
Wildlife and Poultry Farms on Alert
Forest authorities have also been placed on high alert. M.G. Ganesan, Deputy Director of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, confirmed that wildlife divisions are closely monitoring bird populations within forest areas. Any unusual patterns will be reported immediately for further investigation.
Poultry farms across the state have been instructed to restrict visitor access and reinforce farm-level biosecurity practices. Measures include disinfecting vehicles entering farm premises, limiting external contact and ensuring that feed and water sources are protected from wild birds.
Awareness Campaign and Market Monitoring
The department has launched an extensive Information, Education and Communication campaign to inform the public about the symptoms and risks associated with avian influenza. Officials aim to ensure that accurate information reaches both urban and rural communities.
Monitoring has also been intensified in live bird markets and wet markets, where the risk of transmission can be higher due to close interaction between birds and humans. In addition, the movement of poultry and poultry products is being regulated in border districts to prevent the spread of infection across regions.
District administrations have been asked to review their preparedness plans, ensuring that medical supplies, protective equipment and rapid response teams are ready to respond swiftly if required. Authorities maintain that these precautionary steps are designed to prevent panic while ensuring public health and animal safety remain protected.