Kerala: Bird flu reported in ducks in Alappuzha
An outbreak of bird flu, specifically the H5N1 subtype of the Influenza A virus, has been confirmed in two different locations within Kerala's Alappuzha district. This came to light after the analysis of samples from symptomatic ducks at a Bhopal-based laboratory. The affected areas include Ward 1 of Edathva Grama Panchayat and Ward 3 of Cheruthana Grama Panchayat, as confirmed by Sajeev Kumar KR, the Alappuzha District Animal Husbandry officer.
Significant losses reported by local duck farmers
According to reports, local duck farmers have reported substantial losses due to the bird flu outbreak. Abraham Ouseph from Edathua has lost 3,000 of his 7,500 ducks since April 12. Similarly, Chirayil and Devarajan T, who were raising ducks at Cheruthana, reported losses of 238 and 171 birds respectively. The outbreak has significantly impacted the local poultry industry in these regions, with fears about the future.
Government response to bird flu outbreak
To check the spread of the disease, in a meeting—led by the district collector—it was decided to cull domestic birds within a 1km radius of the outbreak's epicenter. This measure aligns with the United States government's standard protocol for such incidents. A Rapid Action Force is being assembled by the Animal Welfare Department to manage this situation. The district administration has reassured residents that there is no risk of human transmission and urged them not to panic.
Bird flu and preventive measures
Bird flu is a respiratory disease caused by specific types of influenza viruses commonly found in domestic poultry such as ducks, chickens, and geese. Human infection is rare but has been reported among preventive frequently exposed to poultry or wild birds. Preventive measures include wearing gloves while handling and preparing chicken meat, thoroughly cleaning all surfaces that come into contact with raw poultry using hot, soapy water, and cooking chicken until it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C.
2 cases of avian influenza detected in US
Recently, two cases of avian influenza in humans were reported in the US. The first case was reported in Colorado, where a person contracted the H5N1 virus following direct contact with infected poultry. In the second case, a person in Texas contracted the virus after exposure to cattle believed to be carriers. Despite the recent case, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk to the general public remains minimal.
