Central Team Assesses Bird Flu Outbreak in Odisha's Puri District

A central team visited Odisha's Puri district to evaluate the bird flu situation after the H5N1 virus was detected among poultry. They toured affected farms and interacted with locals. Despite no human cases reported, caution is advised. Over 35,000 birds were culled, and recommendations will be made to state officials.

A three-member central team visited Odisha's Puri district on Wednesday to assess the situation following the detection of bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza) among poultry birds. The team toured several affected poultry farms, interacted with farm owners, locals, and rapid response teams, officials said.

Abhijit Mitra, a member of the central team, spoke to reporters in Nimapara block, emphasising that while bird flu primarily affects chickens, the possibility of the virus affecting humans cannot be entirely ruled out. ''No cases of bird flu in humans have been reported in India so far,'' Mitra noted.

The central team acknowledged the state government's efforts to contain the outbreak and planned to meet with senior officials to provide recommendations.

In response to the outbreak, over 35,000 birds have been culled in Pipili, Satyabadi, Nimapada, and Delanga blocks, officials added. More than 50 rapid response teams are actively involved in culling, disposing of infected birds, and sanitizing affected areas. Senior veterinary doctors and other officials were present during the team's visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)