Ten Indian states report bird flu cases

"Till January 11, 2021, Avian Influenza has been confirmed in 10 states of the country," read an Indian government released statement.

The bird flu outbreak occurred in the country at a time when the nation is already combating COVID-19 pandemic spread.

"ICAR- NIHSAD has confirmed death of crows and migratory/wild birds in Tonk, Karauli, Bhilwara districts of Rajasthan; and Valsad, Vadodara and Surat districts of Gujarat," read the statement.

Further, death of crows were confirmed in Kotdwar and Dehradun districts of Uttarakhand.

In Delhi, crows and ducks, respectively, were reported dead in New Delhi and Sanjay lake areas.  

Additionally, outbreak of Avian influenza has been among poultry in Parbhani district while AI is confirmed from Mumbai, Thane, Dapoli, Beed in crows in Maharashtra.

In Haryana, culling of infected birds is underway for the control and containment of the spread of the disease.

A Central team has visited Himachal Pradesh and will reach Panchkula on 11 January, 2021 for carrying out monitoring the epicentre sites and conducting epidemiological investigation.

States have been requested to build awareness among the public and avoid the spread of misinformation.

"States/ UTs have been requested to increase surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos, poultry farms, etc. along with proper disposal of carcass, and strengthening of bio-security in poultry farms," the statement said.

Moreover, maintaining adequate stock of PPE kits and accessories required for culling operations. Secretary DAHD requested State Animal Husbandry departments to ensure effective communication and coordination with Health authorities for close vigilance of the disease status and avoid any chances of jumping of the disease into humans.