Bird Flu Concerns Rise in Cuddalore Following Mass Crow Deaths
In a concerning development, more than 50 crows were discovered dead at Periyakanganakuppam village in Cuddalore district on Wednesday and Thursday, triggering immediate fears of a potential bird flu outbreak. The incident has prompted swift action from local authorities to investigate the cause and mitigate any health risks.
Official Response and Testing Procedures
District Collector Sibi Adhithya Senthil Kumar has directed veterinary officials to collect the carcasses and send them to a specialized laboratory in Namakkal for comprehensive testing. This move aims to determine whether the deaths are linked to avian influenza or other factors. The collector emphasized that there is currently no risk to the public, urging calm while investigations are underway.
Recent Similar Incidents Across the Region
This event follows a pattern of similar occurrences in recent weeks. Last month, several crows were found dead in multiple locations, including Chennai, Dindigul, Salem, and Puducherry. These incidents have heightened public anxiety, with many fearing that chickens scavenging on the carcasses could spread the disease to poultry populations, potentially impacting local economies and food safety.
Government Advisories and Preventive Measures
In response to the growing concerns, the state government, acting on an advisory from the Union government, has issued guidelines requesting people to immediately bury birds that die of sudden fever in deep pits to prevent further transmission. Additionally, Puducherry's animal husbandry department has released an advisory on bird flu, particularly in light of the ongoing migratory bird season. The advisory notes that migratory waterfowl visiting local wetlands may carry the virus without showing symptoms and can potentially transmit it to domestic poultry, underscoring the need for vigilance.
Public Alert and Community Involvement
The district administration has urged the public to remain alert and report any instances of birds dying in large numbers to veterinary officials promptly. This community-based approach is crucial for early detection and containment of any potential outbreaks. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure public health and safety are maintained.
