No avian Influenza in migratory birds in Chilika: Govt

Bhubaneswar, Dec 21: The excreta samples of the migratory birds from the Nalabana of the Chilika Lake have tested negative by avian influenza, a Veterinary Department official said today.

The Animal Resources Development (ARD) Department had sent the samples for tests in the wake of the outbreak of bird flu in Krushnaprasad block along the Chilika lake in Puri district.

In-charge Chief District Veterinary Officer (CDVO), Khurda, S Das said the excreta samples of 42 migratory birds were sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal and the report negated presence of the avian influenza virus.

However, the migratory birds would be closely watched for a month and sample test would be conducted at regular intervals, he added.

Notably, to check the spread of bird flu in Krushnaprasad block, 10 more rapid response teams arrived in the block on Friday and began culling of poultry at Badasahi, Sanasahi and Bauripalli villages.