Hyderabad: The Telangana govt has issued a warning to poultry farmers following the confirmation of avian influenza (H5N1) as the cause of death of a large number of chickens in a poultry farm in East and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh.
Given the possibility of the flu spreading to Telangana, the govt has urged the public to control meat consumption and advised caution in poultry farming for a few days.
According to sources, around 24 check posts have been set up at the Nalgonda district border and officials have been turning back vehicles carrying chicken from AP.
The animal husbandry and fisheries department said that the warnings are being issued in advance, keeping in mind the guidelines given by the central govt to the state govts.
District collectors and various govt departments have been advised to remain vigilant about suspicious and viral deaths in chickens and other animals. Officials have been instructed to meet poultry farmers and industry representatives to create awareness about the spread of avian influenza and the precautions to be taken.
Poultry farm owners are advised to report any chicken deaths immediately to the relevant veterinary hospital. Given the govt’s earlier recommendations on preventive measures against avian influenza, poultry farm owners in the district are urged to take appropriate precautions. Collectors have advised farm owners to cooperate with veterinary officials during inspections and provide all necessary information.
Experts say the bird flu virus cannot survive at high temperatures, so there is no risk if chicken meat and eggs are thoroughly cooked. However, officials stress the need to remain vigilant against the avian flu virus.
