New Delhi: The Centre has asked all states to remain alert to any unusual deaths of domestic birds and poultry and share the information with the state governments. Animal Husbandry Department Public health action can be initiated as per the National Action Plan for Avian Influenza with immediate effect. A joint advisory issued by the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Ministry of Health on May 25 said that public health action can be initiated as per the National Action Plan for Avian Influenza. Animal Husbandry Department And the dairy said that in 2024, Four states – Andhra Pradesh Outbreaks of Avian Influensa in poultry have already been reported in Uttar Pradesh (Nellore), Maharashtra (Nagpur), Kerala (Alappuzha, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta districts) and Jharkhand (Ranchi). “Since Avian Influensa (H5N1) infection is highly pathogenic and has the potential to spread to humans, it is imperative to take all necessary measures to mitigate and prevent the spread of this infection,” the joint advisory said.

It said that avian influenza viruses (bird flu viruses) commonly circulate in nature primarily among migratory birds and cause outbreaks among domestic poultry, possibly through contact of migratory birds with poultry.

H5N1 is the main avian influenza virus that has caused many outbreaks in poultry worldwide. Both types of viruses (HPAI and LPAI) can also occasionally affect other mammalian species, including humans.

The joint consultation said human infection spreads primarily through direct contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments.

The joint consultation said that although there have been sporadic reports in humans and domestic and wild birds, there is global concern about an outbreak of avian influenza in cattle in several US states since March 2024, resulting in one human case of H5N1.

Outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry have been reported in India since 2006 and are being jointly investigated by the Departments of Animal Husbandry and Health (IDSP, NCDC).

States and Union Territories have been advised to educate all health care workers/private practitioners on the definition, signs and symptoms of avian influenza cases.

“Remain alert for any unusual deaths of domestic birds/poultry in your State and if observed, please immediately share the information with the Animal Husbandry Department so that public health action can be initiated as per the National Action Plan for Avian Influenza,” the joint advisory said.

States have been advised to strengthen biosecurity measures in all poultry establishments, zoos, poultry markets etc. after conducting a thorough assessment.

“Comprehensive biosecurity assessments are recommended on all poultry farms. Access to farms should be restricted and strict hygiene protocols should be implemented, including the use of disinfectant footbaths and protective clothing. Measures to prevent contact between wild birds and domestic poultry should be implemented,” it said.

States have been asked to enhance information, education and communication means among the general public about preventive measures, such as minimizing touching of dead or sick birds with bare hands and without adequate respiratory protection and following food safety measures when consuming products of animal origin.

Apart from this, they have been asked to be prepared for all preventive measures like stocking adequate number of antiviral drugs (Oseltamivir), PPE, masks, etc.

The joint advisory said that if Avian Influenza is confirmed in birds in your state, isolation wards/beds may be required in dedicated hospitals to handle any suspected cases.

It also called for enhanced surveillance (in wet markets, slaughterhouses, poultry farm workers, etc.) as well as expanded surveillance (in sewage samples, water bodies, crows, etc.) for avian influenza in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Indian Council of Medical Research A laboratory jointly set up by (ICMR) and Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD).

It emphasized on timely sharing of information and also underlined the need for strict adherence to the SARI surveillance guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by all States and its monitoring at the senior level.

In the joint consultation, certain additional measures have been recommended in the States where there is an active outbreak of Avian Influenza.

They have been asked to collect samples from Kallar and surveillance staff (considered ‘at-risk’ groups) on the 5th and 10th day after the sanitation drive for H5N1 testing.

The joint advisory emphasised on surveillance of suspected human cases and providing health check-ups for poultry farmers and poultry keepers with a 10-day period and said measures have been suggested for chemoprophylaxis, management and use of personal protection. safety device (PPE) should be applied.

It also advised following standard operating procedures for collecting samples from suspected cases and delivering them to designated laboratories.

“All outbreaks of avian influenza require a coordinated response involving experts from veterinary services, health departments, wildlife and forest departments, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders. Regular meetings should be held to share information, assess the situation and adjust strategies accordingly,” the joint consultation said.