Our Correspondent
The Centre today asked the National Institute for High Security Animal Diseases-NISHAD, Bhopal and Northern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory,NRDDL, Jalandhar to thoroughly investigate the outbreak of the Bird Flu to determine the source of infection.
It will help zoo authorities across the country to implement suitable strategy to prevent the transmission of the disease to captive birds.
The direction came following the samples of dead birds in Zoological parks in Delhi and Gwalior testing positive for H5N8 Avian Influenza.
An official communique issued by Agriculture Ministry, said that the strain of this virus has not led to any human infection till now anywhere in the world. However, necessary precautions need to be taken while handling the sick and dead birds and contaminated material.
The release also said as per the World Organisation of Animal Health, the avian Influenza disease in wild and migratory birds does not affect the Bird Flu free status of the country and there are no trade implications.
Animal Husbandry Department has issued guidelines to the states and the zoo authorities on control and containment of the infection. It has also requested the Environment and Forests Ministry to issue advisories to all the wildlife and bird sanctuaries in the country to be on alert and take necessary actions for its prevention.
Meanwhile Delhi government has ruled out any threat to humans due to Bird Flu or Avian Influenza so far as its strain is less infective.
Briefing media, Delhi Development Minister Gopal Rai said, the report of the samples of three birds which died recently at Delhi Zoo due to Bird Flu have been received and the category of the influenza virus is H5N8.
He said there is no need to panic as all measures are in place to deal with the situation. Mr Rai also said six ducks have been found dead in Deer park today in the city.
He said, vehicle carrying poultry will not be allowed entry in Ghazipur Mandi without a medical certificate from Sunday.