KENDRAPARA: Panic gripped parts of Derabish block in Odisha’s Kendrapara district as nearly 1,500 chickens died across poultry farms in Golarahat, Dumuka, and nearby villages between Tuesday and Thursday. The unnatural deaths have sparked fears of a possible bird flu outbreak, although officials urge the public to remain calm.
According to Chief District Veterinary Officer (CDVO) Dr. Manoj Patnaik, there is no confirmed case of H5N1 bird flu in the area so far. However, the district has swung into action with rigorous surveillance within a two-kilometre radius of the affected sites. The dead birds were safely buried, and residents have been warned against handling carcasses without gloves.
To safeguard the poultry population, mass vaccination drives are underway against bird flu and Ranikhet disease. Farmers are being encouraged to visit their nearest veterinary dispensaries for free vaccinations.
Samples of blood, stool, and swabs from both live and dead birds have been sent to the Animal Disease Research Institute (ADRI) in Cuttack for further testing. Meanwhile, nine Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), consisting of veterinary surgeons, livestock inspectors, and community members, have been activated across all blocks in the district to monitor and respond quickly.
Farmers have also received training to detect early signs of illness in poultry and are being advised to maintain strict bio-security protocols, including aerial disinfection and regular health checkups of birds.
Eggora urges all poultry farmers in the region to stay alert, report unusual bird deaths, and follow veterinary guidelines strictly to prevent the spread of any potential outbreak.
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