Bengaluru: A day after a case of bird flu was reported in Bhuvaneshwari Nagar in Dasarahalli near Hebbal, officials from the animal husbandry department and BBMP on Wednesday directed poultry shops within one kilometre radius to shut down to allow culling operations.
Dr Rajkumar Khatri, principal secretary, Animal Husbandry Department, said, “A few days ago, a vendor brought to our notice that a few country fowls, which were supplied to the shop, died, which gave rise to suspicion. The samples were collected and sent to the National Institute of High Security, Bhopal, where one bird was tested positive for H5. There should be no panic as H5 virus can rarely transmit to humans. All the shops falling within one km radius were shut down and culling process began. 71 birds were culled in the area.”
The cullers will also be kept under observation and will be quarantined for over 10 days. “We have taken all precautionary measures as it is a sensitive issue. We are also ensuring that the virus does not spread. The cullers have been told to take necessary safety measures. We will observe them and ensure that they do not become carriers. We have mobilised teams from all departments concerned and various teams have been formed to carry out surveillance in Dasarahalli and surrounding areas. Bengaluru Urban deputy commissioner and BBMP officials are also keeping a watch on the situation.
Employees from BBMP, Asha workers and members of Gram Panchayath have all been roped in to monitor the situation.” P.T. Srinivas, deputy director, Poultry Disease Diagnostic Lab, said, “The birds were sourced from Tamil Nadu and details of the supplier are being collected from the vendor. The entire city need not be worried as it is a stray case and there is no need for panic. Screening has been carried out in various parts of the city and as of now, no positive cases have been reported. Officials will conduct tests once in 15 days,” he said.
