VARANASI: Following the confirmation of avian influenza (bird flu) at a poultry farm in Rampur, the Varanasi district administration has stepped up precautionary measures. A dedicated control room has been established, and the Animal Husbandry Department is actively monitoring the situation. Officials have assured poultry farmers that there is no cause for alarm at present.
Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Dr. R.S. Rajput confirmed the outbreak at the Rampur farm, where all infected birds were culled in accordance with safety regulations. Importantly, no other poultry farms in Varanasi district have reported any suspected cases so far.
During a meeting chaired by District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar on Wednesday, the CVO emphasized that routine inspections are underway. Animal Husbandry teams are visiting poultry farms, collecting swab and serum samples, and sending them to laboratories for testing.
Guidelines for Farmers
Poultry farmers have been advised to stay alert and watch for early warning signs of avian influenza, which include:
- Sudden, large-scale chicken deaths
- Lethargy and reduced activity
- Blue discoloration of beaks and legs
- Respiratory distress (coughing, sneezing)
- Drop in egg production
- Unusual wounds or swelling
- Eye or nasal discharge
Farmers have also been asked to follow strict biosecurity practices such as:
- Maintaining overall farm cleanliness
- Spraying disinfectants regularly
- Restricting entry of outsiders
- Placing lime at entrances to disinfect footwear
- Quarantining new poultry or equipment for at least two weeks
- Preventing entry of wild birds into farms
- Cleaning feeding and drinking utensils daily
- Using protective gear like masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers
- Washing thoroughly with soap after handling birds or related materials
Officials stressed that any sudden or unexplained poultry deaths should be reported immediately. Farmers are strictly advised not to touch birds that die unexpectedly.
Emergency Contact Numbers
For guidance or reporting suspicious cases, farmers can contact:
- Dr. Yogesh Upadhyay, Nodal Officer / Superintendent of Animal Medical Polyclinic: 📞 9305133706
- Babita Pandey, In-charge Poultry Field Manager / Livestock Extension Officer: 📞 6387589262
- Sohrab Ali, Livestock Extension Officer: 📞 9936848068
The Animal Husbandry Department has assured that these precautions are routine measures and urged farmers to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative.
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