Chennai, Feb 7 (NationPress) In light of alarming reports regarding a significant number of crow fatalities and rising concerns about a potential avian influenza outbreak, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries has released a detailed advisory outlining essential biosecurity and safety measures to safeguard poultry, wild birds, and the public.

At the same time, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH) has issued a public health notice encouraging citizens to stay vigilant and adhere to recommended safety protocols.

Health officials recommend that anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, including cough, cold, fever, or difficulty breathing—especially those who have been in contact with birds—should seek medical care immediately.

The advisory emphasizes that workers in slaughterhouses, poultry handlers, and those who may encounter sick or deceased birds should exercise heightened caution. The public is urged to report any unusual bird deaths or clusters of illness to the animal husbandry department without delay.

Authorities in animal husbandry have instructed field personnel and veterinary teams to enhance surveillance efforts across districts to identify sudden health issues or mortality rates among crows, wild birds, and domestic poultry.

Veterinary professionals have been directed to refrain from conducting post-mortem examinations of birds in open environments; instead, they should send carcasses to designated Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratories for testing.

To mitigate infection risks through scavengers or environmental contamination, officials state that deceased birds must either be incinerated or buried deeply. The public has been sternly warned against handling bird carcasses with bare hands. If unavoidable, gloves should be worn, and hands must be thoroughly washed afterward.

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve Deputy Director M.G. Ganesan confirmed that wildlife divisions are on high alert to monitor bird populations in forested areas closely. Poultry farms across the state have been instructed to limit visitor access and enhance on-farm biosecurity measures.

The department has initiated a wide-ranging Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign to raise awareness about avian influenza symptoms and risks. Intensive monitoring is underway at live bird markets and wet markets, with restrictions on the movement of poultry and related products in border regions.

District administrations have been tasked with reviewing their preparedness levels and ensuring that adequate equipment and response plans are in place to address any potential outbreaks rapidly.

aal/rad