The administration in Dharashiv city, Maharashtra, formerly known as Osmanabad, has taken swift action to contain a bird flu outbreak in the Dhoki area. Nearly 300 poultry birds have been culled after samples tested positive for avian influenza, officials confirmed on Thursday.
Bird Flu Outbreak and Containment Measures
Bird flu, a highly contagious virus affecting poultry and wild birds, can also pose risks to humans. Last month, concerns arose when multiple dead crows were found in the area. Samples sent to the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal confirmed the presence of avian influenza.
Following this, additional samples from poultry birds raised by local households were tested, and some returned positive for the virus. In response, the administration swiftly declared a 10-km containment zone around the affected area and initiated culling procedures on Wednesday. With the assistance of five teams, 295 birds were culled by evening to prevent further spread.
Impact on Local Poultry Keepers
Unlike large-scale poultry farms, the affected area consists mainly of backyard poultry, including hens, ducks, and roosters. Local poultry owners are being compensated in accordance with government policies. While this measure is necessary to curb the outbreak, it has significantly impacted small-scale poultry keepers who rely on their birds for livelihood.
Precautions for Poultry Farmers
Eggora urges poultry farmers to stay vigilant and implement stringent biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza. Here are some key precautions:
- Monitor your flock: Report any unusual bird deaths or symptoms such as lethargy, respiratory distress, or decreased egg production.
- Limit bird movement: Restrict access to poultry farms and backyard flocks to prevent potential contamination.
- Practice hygiene: Disinfect equipment, footwear, and hands after handling birds.
- Avoid contact with wild birds: Prevent interactions between domestic poultry and wild birds, as they can be carriers of the virus.
For farmers affected by the outbreak, government compensation can provide some relief, but ensuring strong preventive measures will help safeguard poultry businesses in the long run.
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