ARDD sounds alert, Avian Flu in state

Avian influenza or Bird Flu scare has sent panic waves among the people as many of the ducks died in a farm at Bishalgarh over the past few days.

After the news reached the administration, an alert has been sounded and necessary preparations have been put in place to prevent the spread of Avian Influenza (HPAI).

As informed by Biswajit Sinha, one of the partners of the farm located at Dhakarbari Manipuri Basti in Bishalgarh, samples were already collected and sent to the laboratory for testing. However, the report was awaiting till the last information came in.

Sinha told the media that the farm was set up by four friends including him. There were around 500 ducks. In the past three to four days, many of the ducks were found dead due to an unknown reason.

Meanwhile, there is no report of any such case in the state so far but the Animal Resources Development Department has put all necessary preparations in place to prevent any possible ingress of Avian Influenza as such cases are being reported from some parts of the country.

As per the memorandum, the authorities concerned have been asked to ensure restriction on the movement of poultry and poultry products across the international border.

Under the regular sero-surveillance work, collection of samples from doubtful cases, cloacal swab, tracheal swab and excreta has been geared up.

All the deputy directors of ARDD have been asked to ensure that the surveillance work and bio-security is carried out as per the surveillance plan on Avian Influenza.

The ARDD also emphasized on strengthening the surveillance throughout the state, especially in the bordering vulnerable areas visited by the migratory birds.

As part of the preparations, Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) would be formed for containment operation in the quickest possible time in case laboratory results confirm any outbreak.

Besides, all the farm in-charge have been asked to maintain regular sanitation procedures with strong veridical disinfectant like ‘Lugaquat-125’ as per recommended doses.

An expert said the people should not panic; rather they should maintain proper hygiene and cook well the chicken/ duck meat or eggs before consumption. According to the veterinary expert, the chance of human transfer in case of Avian Influenza is very less.