Bird flu

The University of Nottingham is participating in a UK-wide trial of a new H5N1 Bird flu vaccine. This trial aims to assess the vaccine's safety and its ability to prepare the body to fight the virus, ensuring readiness should it begin spreading between people.

Karnataka's Tumakuru district is on high alert after over 44 peacocks died, confirming H5N1 avian influenza. While human infections are rare, the virus can cross over from birds, causing severe respiratory illness. Authorities have established containment zones and are monitoring bird populations closely. Residents are urged to avoid sick birds and practice good hygiene.

Puffin Cams are back on the Farne Islands, offering a live view of seabirds and aiding conservation efforts. Despite concerns about Bird flu and recent storms impacting food availability, rangers are closely monitoring the bird population. The cameras provide valuable insights for both the public and those caring for the islands' wildlife.

Laboratory reports have confirmed that H5N1 avian influenza caused the deaths of 44 peacocks in Tumakuru between April 16 and April 24. Authorities have sounded a high alert in 33 villages within a 10-km radius and are implementing disinfectant spraying and enhanced surveillance to prevent further spread.

Initial reports indicated poisoning, but in view of Bird flu cases in neighbouring Nepal, forest officials have not ruled out avian influenza (H5N1).

A Bird flu outbreak has been confirmed at Nagpur's Central Hatchery following the deaths of nearly 1,000 birds. Authorities are implementing urgent containment measures and have warned of disciplinary action for any negligence. Officials are being directed to comply with orders to prevent further spread of the infection.

Bird flu has been confirmed in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, following the deaths of approximately 5,500 chickens at a government poultry farm. Authorities have initiated containment measures, including shutting down the farm, destroying infected birds and eggs, and establishing a five-kilometre sensitive zone. Health and animal husbandry departments are coordinating to prevent further spread.

In Patna's Chitragupta Nagar, tensions flared into violence when a dispute arose over suspected Bird flu-infected chickens. Shopkeeper Mohammad Arman confronted a poultry dealer about the delivery of sickly birds, leading to a brutal assault and theft of Rs5,700. Following the incident, Arman received medical care, and law enforcement has filed a First Information Report (FIR) to investigate the matter.

After a brief ten-day hiatus due to concerns surrounding Bird flu, Patna Zoo swung open its gates once more on Sunday, much to the delight of eager visitors. Following extensive health monitoring that confirmed no avian influenza cases in the vicinity, the zoo is once again a hub of activity.

Bird flu fears have rattled Patna's poultry market ahead of Holi, with authorities culling thousands of birds to curb the outbreak. Shoppers are shifting to mutton, fish, or vegetarian options such as jackfruit, driving chicken sales down by about 50-60%. Farmers and traders are bearing heavy losses as public worry grows.

Maharashtra on Sunday joined seven other states in reporting an outbreak of avian influenza or Bird flu.

Rate of an egg went down by Rs 1.50 in three days as the news of Bird flu broke in the region.

After a few samples of crows from Kale Hanumanji Forest Nakka here tested positive for H5N8 Avian influenza virus, the health department has issued directions to remain alert and keep monitoring patients coming to hospitals for any unusual symptoms similar to Bird flu.

Cases of avian influenza or Bird flu in the national capital has decreased upto 50 per cent, the animal husbandry department of Delhi said on Thursday.

Across India, crows have turned out to be the biggest casualty of Bird flu virus ever since the infection's presence was detected in Rajasthan, MP, Maharashtra, Delhi and other states at the onset of this year. In Gujarat too, nearly 70% of the 500-odd birds reported dead or suspected to have died due to Bird flu were crows.

Bird flu scare among residents has led to a decline in the demand for eggs and chicken in the city. The price of chicken has dropped from Rs 180-200/kg to Rs 150-160/kg within a week. No significant drop has been witnessed in the price of eggs as yet.

Bird-to-human or human-to-human transmission of Bird flu is rare. However, doctors advise precautionary measures, such as avoiding consuming uncooked or partially cooked chicken. Avian influenza can spread to humans through droppings, saliva and secretion of the infected bird, so it is advisable to avoid contaminated surfaces.

Recent as yet unexplained bird deaths in Mumbai Metropolitan Region have pet owners worried. Experts, though, say chances of Bird flu among pet avians are low.