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The Jharkhand government sounded an alarm after bird flu cases surfaced at a state-operated poultry farm in Ranchi, as confirmed by an official statement on Wednesday. A total of 2,196 birds, including 1,745 chickens, were euthanized at the Regional Poultry Farm, Hotwar, with an additional 1,697 eggs destroyed, according to official reports. The presence of H5N1, a strain of avian influenza A virus, was confirmed in samples analyzed at the ICAR-National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying has issued directives to the state government to enforce comprehensive measures to contain the spread of the disease. Immediate actions mandated by the state include identifying infected areas, restricting access to affected sites, culling of birds, and proper disposal of carcasses and contaminated materials.
Authorities have been instructed to demarcate a one km radius around the outbreak site as an infected area, with a ten km radius surrounding it designated as a surveillance zone. Notably, the poultry farm in question had recently resumed operations after undergoing renovation and had procured poultry from Bhubaneswar.
In addition to government measures, the Animal Husbandry Department has issued an advisory urging the public to promptly report any sightings of deceased birds.
Understanding Avian Flu: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, caused by a specific strain of influenza virus, primarily affects poultry such as chickens, ducks, and geese.
Signs and Symptoms: Symptoms of H5N1 are akin to other viral respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. Severe manifestations requiring urgent medical attention include persistent high fever, breathing difficulties, severe vomiting, dehydration, and chest pain.
Prevention Measures: Vaccination against seasonal influenza is recommended for individuals above 6 months of age. Avoiding contact with sick birds and practicing precautions similar to those for COVID-19 are advised to prevent transmission.
Prompt medical attention is crucial for suspected cases, as early administration of antiviral medications can mitigate the severity of the illness. Antibiotics and steroids should be avoided, as they are ineffective against viral infections.
Complications of H5N1 may include severe pneumonia leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), necessitating mechanical ventilation. Accurate diagnosis through laboratory testing is vital for appropriate management.
As authorities intensify efforts to contain the outbreak, public vigilance and adherence to preventive measures remain pivotal in combating the spread of avian influenza.
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