Kolkata: The West Bengal government is keeping a close watch on poultry imports following the outbreak of bird flu in Andhra Pradesh, Animal Resources Development Minister Swapan Debnath said on Friday. Authorities are on high alert, given the growing concerns about the potential impact of avian influenza on the state’s poultry industry.
West Bengal heavily relies on Andhra Pradesh for its egg supply, raising fears that the outbreak could disrupt the poultry sector. In response, the West Bengal Poultry Federation assured that stringent surveillance measures have been in place since November last year to prevent the virus from spreading into the state.
The outbreak has already begun affecting poultry sales in West Bengal, with market footfall decreasing as wary consumers avoid purchasing chicken. This dip in demand has led to a decline in chicken prices, which have fallen from Rs 220 per kg to Rs 200 per kg in just a few days.
Despite the price drop, traders report continued weak demand as uncertainty looms over the virus. Experts, however, have emphasized that the bird flu virus rarely transmits to humans. A doctor explained that while there is a risk for individuals handling infected birds, there is no known danger in consuming properly cooked poultry meat, as high temperatures destroy the virus.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Animal Husbandry Minister K Athcannaidu sought to reassure the public, stating on Wednesday that measures are in place to control the outbreak and there is no need for panic.
The West Bengal government remains vigilant, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to protect both consumers and the poultry industry from potential risks associated with the bird flu outbreak.