Patna authorities are closely monitoring the bird flu outbreak after the H5N1 virus was confirmed in poultry and other birds at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) campus. Following the detection, precautionary measures were swiftly implemented, including the culling of poultry at two nearby farms to prevent further spread.
In a reassuring statement, Patna’s civil surgeon, Dr. Avinash Kumar Singh, confirmed that human testing will begin on Monday, focusing on individuals who have been in direct contact with infected poultry. “We are taking around 30 samples from those involved in handling birds, collecting samples, or participating in culling operations,” Singh explained. He emphasized that while the situation is being monitored carefully, there is no immediate cause for alarm.
Authorities have extended surveillance within a 3-kilometer radius of the ICAR premises, with the possibility of widening the scope to 10 kilometers if necessary. So far, no additional cases of bird flu have been detected in poultry, but further testing is underway. If new cases emerge, the administration is prepared to issue a public advisory and enforce stricter containment measures.
To minimize the risk of human infection, health officials have distributed the antiviral drug Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) to workers engaged in culling and survey operations. Medical experts have reassured the public that the H5N1 virus primarily spreads through direct contact with infected birds. Dr. Vijay Achari from Patna Medical College and Hospital advised people to avoid handling live poultry and to ensure thorough cooking of chicken, as high temperatures effectively eliminate the virus.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans resemble common flu, including fever, cough, runny nose, and body aches. While authorities are taking every precaution, they stress that ordinary citizens face minimal risk if they follow safety guidelines. The situation remains under control, and officials urge people to remain cautious but not panic.
