Agartala, Jan 8 (UNI) Tripura government has issued alert on the threat of highly-pathogenic
Avian Influenza following it’s recent outbreak in Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and
Himachal Pradesh among birds and sudden death of a large number of egg laying ducks in
a private firm here.
The veterinary officials have collected the samples to ascertain the reason for duck deaths
and ensured safe disposal of the birds. The officials have also strengthened surveillance
around the area and issued special advisory for the poultry firms.
Director of Animal Resources Development Dr K Sasikumar advised all farms to keep a
strict vigil and watch out for any unusual mortality, sickness in birds (poultry, ducks as well
as wild, migratory birds). If any doubtful case is observed near any water bodies, it should
be reported immediately to the nearest veterinary institute.
He advised the district administrations to go for public awareness about the risk of bird flu
to the avian and human population besides, advising people not to be scared unnecessarily.
To ensure the surveillance work, bio-security is carried out as per the surveillance plan on
Avian Influenza including collection of samples from the suspected cases, cloacal swab,
tracheal swab, excreta under regular sero-surveillance.
“Extensive education information and communication campaign along with forest personnel
to inform all concerned including the general public on the perceived threat of bird flu and of
the steps to be taken to prevent its spread and in case any symptoms or any unusual mortality
are noticed, to report the concerned authorities,” the order mentioned.
According to report, the state government has proposed to form rapid response teams as
per requirement with a target to complete control and containment operation in the quickest
possible time, in case laboratory results confirm any outbreak. However, the entire farm in
charge was asked to continue regular sanitation procedure with strong veridical disinfectant.
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