H5N1 Avian Influenza Outbreak Confirmed in Patna, Prompting Zoo Closure and Mass Culling
Patna: The presence of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus has been officially confirmed in Patna, Bihar, following a series of sudden bird deaths in the city. The district animal husbandry officer's office reported that crows near the Patna High Court and in the Kankarbagh area, as well as poultry at a university research centre in Chitkohra, have tested positive for the virus.
Precautionary Measures and Zoo Closure
As an immediate precautionary step, the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, commonly known as Patna Zoo, will remain closed to the public for one week, until March 7. Additionally, J-Sector West Park has been advised to close for the same duration. Both facilities fall within a 1-kilometer radius of the infection epicentres and have been classified as "infected zones" under government protocols.
In an official press release, the director of Patna Zoo stated, "To ensure the safety of wildlife and zoo personnel from Avian Influenza (H5N1), all necessary precautionary steps and disinfection activities are being carried out. These measures are being implemented in accordance with the Government of India's 2021 revised Action Plan for Avian Influenza."
Mass Culling and Containment Efforts
The Bihar Department of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources has initiated a large-scale culling operation targeting 4,575 poultry birds to prevent further spread of the virus. Laboratory tests conducted by the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal confirmed the H5N1 outbreak after unusual bird mortality was reported in the region.
Rapid response teams have been deployed to destroy potential sources of contamination, including 9,662 eggs and 530 kilograms of poultry feed. Intensive disinfection operations are currently underway across the infected zone to strengthen biosafety protocols in surrounding areas and mitigate the risk of transmission.
Public Health Guidelines and Safety Information
The department has issued detailed public guidelines to address concerns about food safety and human health. Officials emphasized that the H5N1 virus is neutralized at temperatures of 70°C, and poultry products remain safe for consumption if they are properly cleaned and thoroughly cooked at this temperature.
It was noted that while avian influenza has been present in India since 2006, no human infections have been recorded in the country to date. However, residents are urged to exercise caution and follow official advisories.
Symptoms and Public Instructions
Members of the public have been instructed to:
- Avoid touching or dissecting dead birds
- Report any sick birds to the local animal husbandry department immediately
- Contact the Patna control room for official information and updates
- Refrain from spreading unverified rumours about the outbreak
Symptoms of avian influenza in poultry include:
- Swelling of the head
- Bluish discolouration of the legs or comb
- Sudden and unexplained mortality
The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to contain the outbreak and protect both animal and human health in the region.
