Bird Flu Spreads in Patna! Alert for Chicken Consumers Ahead of Holi, Poultry Farms in Crisis

Bird Flu

Krishi Dunia

• 10 Mar, 2025 12:18 PM IST ,
• Updated Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:46 PM

The threat of bird flu (Avian Influenza) has once again risen in Bihar’s capital, Patna. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Eastern Regional Station has confirmed cases of bird flu, prompting the culling of around 200 chickens at the institute. In response, Bihar Animal Sciences University is also taking necessary precautions to protect its poultry farms from infection.

How Did Bird Flu Spread at ICAR?

A few days ago, a sudden rise in chicken deaths was reported at ICAR Patna. Considering the seriousness of the situation, samples were sent to ICAR’s High-Security Lab in Bhopal for testing. The lab confirmed bird flu, leading to an immediate evacuation of poultry wards. Additionally, all poultry farms within a one-kilometer radius were alerted, and strict monitoring of the virus spread began.

Bihar Animal Sciences University on High Alert:

Bihar Animal Sciences University, located just opposite the ICAR campus, is also at risk of infection. As a precautionary measure, the university has decided to cull all chickens at its poultry farm and destroy their feed. The university administration aims to complete this process swiftly to prevent any further spread of the virus.

ICAR Takes Strict Measures:

Dr. P.C. Chandran, Principal Scientist at ICAR, stated that as soon as the bird flu was confirmed, immediate action was taken. Around 130 chickens and 60 ducks at the farm were culled and buried. The entire farm is undergoing thorough cleaning and sanitization to eliminate any traces of the virus.

Government Protocol for Bird Flu Control:

According to the Government of India’s guidelines, if a poultry farm reports a bird flu outbreak, all birds within a one-kilometer radius must be culled, whether they show symptoms or not. This rule applies to both government and private poultry farms to prevent further transmission.

Poultry Farmers Advised to Stay Vigilant:

To curb the spread of bird flu, poultry farmers are advised to strictly follow biosecurity measures:

• Trim tall tree branches near the farm to prevent crows from roosting.
• Immediately scare away any crows spotted near poultry farms.
• Restrict entry of outsiders into the farm premises.
• Stop poultry transport vehicles outside the farm.
• Workers should have separate clothing for inside and outside the farm to prevent contamination.

Symptoms of Bird Flu in Poultry:

If a poultry farm is affected by bird flu, some early warning signs include:

• Chickens stop eating and drinking.
• A sudden rise in chicken deaths.
• If 20 chickens die on the first day, the number may increase rapidly the next day.

Poultry farmers noticing these symptoms should immediately inform the district animal husbandry department.

Will the Poultry Business Be Affected?

As of now, bird flu has not had a major impact on Patna’s poultry industry. The affected chickens at ICAR were used for research, and no cases have been detected in broilers or layer hens. However, poultry businesses must remain cautious and adopt strict biosecurity measures to prevent an outbreak.

By following the right precautions, the spread of bird flu can be controlled, ensuring the safety of both poultry farmers and consumers.

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