Bird flu confirmed at two districts in Kerala

Avian influenza subtype H5N8 was detected in birds in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts of Kerala. Birds within one-kilometre of the outbreak would be culled as a precautionary measure.

Thiruvananthapuram: Bird flu outbreak has been reported in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts of Kerala, here on Monday, after the samples were tested and confirmed in a laboratory in Bhopal. Avian influenza subtype H5N8 has been detected.

The viral infection has affected Nedumudi, Thakazhi, Pallippadu and Karuvatta in Alappuzha district and Neendoor in Kottayam District. K Raju, Minister of Forest and Animal Husbandry in Kerala, informed that all measures have been taken to check the spread of the viral disease.

The virus has not been reported to have infected human beings so far. However, we cannot be sure that it will not infect humans, the Minister said.

A Rapid Response Team has been deployed to carry out the culling of birds in affected areas. All birds within one square kilometre area where the bird flu is confirmed will be culled as a preventive measure to check the spread.

It has been estimated that about 48,000 birds might have to be culled. The farmers and owners of the birds would be duly compensated for their loss, the Minister added.