Since january 2024, more than 7,000 poultry birds have been slaughtered and 2,000 eggs lost due to a severe bird flu epidemic in Maharashtra. The H5N1 avian influenza virus is the primary cause of the outbreak, which has spread to seven regions and mostly affected backyard and unorganized chicken farms. Since the virus has also affected wildlife, such as tigers, leopards, vultures, and crows, authorities have issued a warning.
 
Key Areas Affected by Bird Flu in Maharashtra
The avian flu epidemic includes seven epicenters, according to the maharashtra Animal Husbandry Department. Latur, Nanded, Nagpur, Thane, Raigad, and Chandrapur are among the districts that are impacted. For instance, in Chandrapur, an epidemic close to a previously documented incidence led to the culling of 2,065 birds.
 
Due to the strict biosecurity steps, these farms have taken to avoid exposure to migrating birds, a significant source of the virus, there have been no reports of bird flu infections in organized poultry farms, even though the majority of cases have occurred in backyard farms.
 
Maharashtra’s Response: Large-Scale Culling and Destruction
Among Maharashtra's prompt measures have been the destruction of tainted eggs and the culling of diseased birds. Official sources claim that to stop the spread, animals, eggs, and birds within five kilometers of affected regions are routinely exterminated. In addition, 693 animals and birds, including vultures and cats kept at the Gorewada Rescue Center in Nagpur, have already died from the disease.
 
AP & telangana Are On High Alert
In neighboring states like andhra pradesh and telangana, where the H5N1 virus has been connected to unexpected chicken fatalities, the situation is also becoming worse. Poultry fatalities have been recorded in Telangana's khammam and Sathupalli districts, as well as Andhra Pradesh's Godavari district. Tests on samples taken from the dead hens have shown that avian influenza was the cause. According to experts, migrating birds that come in the winter and contaminate the water sources that chickens drink from are the main sources of the virus.

Symptoms
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
High fever
Fatigue
Cough and cold
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Nausea and vomiting
Runny or stuffy nose
Shortness of breath

Should You Be Worried?
Despite the alarming state of avian flu in maharashtra and the neighboring areas, health officials are keeping a careful eye on the virus's progress. For the time being, the outbreak's reach has been constrained by poultry safety precautions, such as biosecurity procedures at organized poultry farms.

To stop a wider spread, the outbreak in wildlife and poultry farms serves as a reminder of the value of cleanliness, attentiveness, and early detection. Particularly in areas like andhra pradesh and telangana, where more instances are being recorded, the situation needs close observation.

Take Precautions
Although human bird flu is uncommon, if you live in or close to an afflicted region, it is still important to be educated and take the appropriate measures. To protect both you and your animals, make sure you abide by biosecurity regulations if you raise poultry or frequently work with birds.
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SIBY JEYYA

13/02/2025 10:01 AM