Bird Flu Scare: Poultry Farming Banned For 3 Months

Puri: The Puri district administration has enacted a three-month prohibition on poultry farming in the bird flu-affected areas. The ban encompasses the Pipili, Delang, Nimapara, and Satyabadi regions, where poultry farming is forbidden within a one-kilometer radius of the affected zones. As a preventive measure, poultry farming within these areas is banned, and the transportation of chickens beyond a ten-kilometer radius is not permitted. This strategy aims to localize the virus and halt its spread to other areas.

To keep track of the situation, chicken samples will be tested biweekly. Should the tests return negative, the authorities will consider whether further measures are necessary. An official stated that these steps are designed to curb the bird flu’s spread and protect public health while maintaining vigilant surveillance. The restriction is slated to last for three months or until the situation is deemed to have improved. The authorities will persist in monitoring and reassessing the situation based on emerging information.

It is important to note that bird flu has been advancing throughout the state over the past twelve days. Initially identified in Puri and Pipili, cases were subsequently confirmed in the Kendrapara district. The discovery of the H5N1 strain led to extensive bird culling by the local authorities. Beyond culling, rigorous disinfection protocols are in place in the impacted locales to manage the virus. People living in the affected zones are urged to steer clear of birds and to report any ill or deceased poultry to the authorities without delay. A temporary embargo on the sale and transport of poultry goods from the area has also been implemented to inhibit further dissemination.