Nagpur: In a startling development, Nagpur is facing a critical situation with the outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. The Regional Hatchery Centre, located in Seminary Hills and managed by the state animal husbandry department, confirmed the presence of avian influenza after recent mortalities. The Rapid Response Team (RRT) swiftly took action by scientifically destroying over 8,500 poultry birds, 16,700 eggs, and 400kg of bird feed.
District collector Vipin Itankar, responding to the urgency of the situation, declared a 1km restricted zone around the hatchery on Wednesday. Additionally, a surveillance zone of 10km has been established to monitor the spread of the disease over the next 21 days. While there are currently no reports of avian influenza on other farms in and around Nagpur, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Experts reassure the public that although avian influenza is contagious, the chances of infected humans transmitting the virus to others remain rare at this point.
Stay Vigilant
In light of the confirmed cases of avian influenza at the Regional Hatchery Centre in Seminary Hills, the administration is urging citizens to remain vigilant without succumbing to panic. Following reports of carcasses testing positive for bird flu, stringent containment measures have been implemented.
Pvt chicken shops must follow suit
For the next 21 days, various activities in the affected area, including the purchase of poultry feed, transportation, and the holding of markets, fairs, and exhibitions, have been halted. Private chicken shop owners and egg sellers in the vicinity are instructed to dispose of their stock and keep their establishments closed during this period.
No new raising
Adding to the precautions, no new bird stock will be raised at the government hatchery for the next three months. The hatchery, known for producing kaveri and kadaknath breeds, has temporarily suspended its operations, impacting farmers and poultry farms that relied on its bulk supplies.
No restriction in unifected zone
Despite the containment measures, there will be no restrictions on the movement of poultry birds, eggs, and poultry feed in uninfected parts within a 10km radius, as per the collector’s order.
Officers on high alert
All veterinary officers in the district are on high alert, instructed to report any abnormal avian deaths promptly. The Vidarbha Poultry Farmers Association appeals to its members to stay calm, follow bio-security measures, and prioritize the use of quality chicks and feed to mitigate potential problems.
