The Kerala State Animal Husbandry Department has confirmed the presence of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in multiple wards across the Alappuzha and Kottayam districts. The outbreak was confirmed following laboratory tests conducted at the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.
Current Status of the Outbreak
The infection has been detected in ducks, chickens, and quails across several panchayats.
- Affected Areas in Alappuzha: Nedumudi, Cheruthana, Karuvatta, Karthikappally, Ambalappuzha South, Punnapra South, Thakazhi, and Purakkad.
- Affected Areas in Kottayam: Kuruppanthara, Manjoor, Kallupuraykkal, and Velur.
Immediate Containment Measures
To prevent the spread of the virus, the state government has activated standard operating protocols:
- Culling Operations: Authorities have initiated the culling of all domestic birds, including ducks and chickens, within a 1-km radius of the infected epicenters.
- Surveillance Zones: A 10-km surveillance zone has been established around the affected areas to monitor for further infections.
- Transport Bans: Strict restrictions have been imposed on the movement, sale, and transport of poultry, eggs, and manure within and from the affected zones.
Impact on Poultry Farmers
The timing of the outbreak is particularly devastating for local farmers, as poultry sales typically peak during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Animal Husbandry Minister J. Chinchu Rani stated that while the government is assessing the intensity, the priority remains public safety and containment. Compensation for farmers affected by culling is expected to be processed through state and central funds.
Is it Safe to Eat Chicken and Eggs?
Health officials emphasize that there is no need for panic, but caution is necessary:
- Current Advice: As of now, there is no blanket ban on the consumption of poultry products outside the restricted zones.
- Safety Protocol: Experts recommend cooking poultry and eggs thoroughly at temperatures above 70°C, as the virus is destroyed by heat. Avoid consuming raw or half-boiled eggs during an outbreak.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Humans
While human infection is rare, those in close contact with birds should watch for:
- High fever and chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Eye infections (conjunctivitis)
- Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
