Belagavi, Karnataka – In response to the outbreak of avian flu (H5N1) in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, Karnataka has imposed a high alert in its border districts—Belagavi, Bidar, Ballari, and Raichur. Officials have increased surveillance and temporarily halted poultry truck movement from affected states to curb the risk of infection.
During a meeting held in Bengaluru on Monday, Harsh Gupta, Principal Secretary of the Health Department, reviewed the situation and instructed officials to monitor poultry workers and vehicles transporting poultry from the affected regions. “Though no cases have been reported, we are on high alert to prevent the rapid spread of the virus among birds,” he stated.
Maharashtra’s Kolhapur and Latur districts, bordering Belagavi and Bidar, along with regions adjoining Telangana and Andhra Pradesh near Ballari and Raichur, have reported a surge in bird flu cases. Despite Karnataka remaining free of reported infections, poultry sales in Belagavi and Bidar have declined since February 17.
“While no infections have been detected, panic fueled by rumors has negatively impacted business,” said Sameer Bahewadi, a poultry farm owner with outlets in Belagavi and Vijayapura. An official from the Belagavi district administration confirmed that poultry imports from Maharashtra have been suspended and urged consumers to buy local poultry products.
Experts from the Animal Husbandry Department in Belagavi have reiterated that bird flu is a zoonotic viral disease primarily affecting poultry, with the potential to infect mammals, including humans and swine. However, Karnataka Poultry Farmers and Breeders’ Association vice president Manjesh Kumar Jadhav reassured stakeholders that the state’s poultry industry remains stable. “The bird flu outbreak in neighboring states has not significantly impacted our business. Karnataka produces around four crore broilers monthly, and with sufficient production, wholesale prices have dropped,” he noted.
For poultry farmers and traders using the Eggora platform, staying informed is crucial. Authorities have urged poultry businesses to follow biosecurity measures and adhere to state directives. While Karnataka remains vigilant, the poultry sector continues to operate efficiently, ensuring a steady supply of safe and fresh products for consumers.