India Battles H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreaks in Andhra Pradesh

India reported eight outbreaks of the H5N1 bird flu in Andhra Pradesh, affecting farms and backyard poultry. According to the World Organisation for Animal Health, these outbreaks resulted in 602,000 poultry either dying or being culled to prevent further spread of the highly pathogenic virus.

The World Organisation for Animal Health announced India's struggle with eight outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu, primarily in the eastern region of Andhra Pradesh. Collaborating with Indian authorities, the organization highlighted the urgency of controlling the spread of avian influenza.

Reports confirm that the outbreaks have resulted in the death or culling of 602,000 poultry, reflecting the severe impact on local farms and backyard poultry operations. These measures aim to contain the virus's transmission, as Andhra Pradesh remains at the epicenter of these recent developments.

As India grapples with this public health challenge, both national and local efforts focus on disease management and prevention. The bird flu's impact on the poultry sector underscores the necessity for stringent biosecurity measures to safeguard both animal and public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)