Kerala on Bird Flu Alert: Health Department Issues Warning

Thiruvananthapuram: Following the confirmation of bird flu (Avian Influenza) in parts of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts, the state health department has issued an alert. However, no human cases of bird flu have been reported in the state so far.

State Health Minister Veena George clarified on Wednesday that although no human cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Kerala, precautionary measures are necessary to prevent possible spread. Field surveillance has been intensified, and the public has been appealed to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the health department. A meeting of the state-level Rapid Response Team (RRT) was held under her chairmanship to review the situation and coordinate precautionary measures.

The health department has also issued standard operating procedures and technical guidelines to tackle Avian Influenza. Trained 'One Health' community volunteers have been deployed to raise awareness and strengthen surveillance in the affected areas of Kottayam and Alappuzha. Control rooms have also been set up at the district level to better coordinate operations.

The health department has directed officials to ensure the availability of medicines, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other necessary protective gear. People living in the affected areas are being closely monitored for symptoms like fever and other symptoms. Those experiencing symptoms like high fever, body aches, cough, or difficulty breathing will be kept under special medical observation.

The health department has appealed to the public to report any unusual or sudden death of birds to the animal husbandry department. While cases of Avian Influenza have been reported in mammals in some countries, no such cases have been confirmed in Kerala. Nevertheless, authorities have been directed to report any sudden death in mammals.

People have been strictly warned not to touch dead or affected birds. Only well-cooked meat and eggs are recommended for consumption. Those who come into contact with chicken meat or bird waste have been advised to use masks, gloves, and other protective gear. The use of raw or undercooked meat has been completely discouraged.

It is noteworthy that Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu, is a viral disease that primarily affects birds and can rarely spread to humans. Birds like chickens, ducks, quails, geese, and turkeys are most susceptible. Although no human cases have been reported in the state, the health department has advised high-risk groups to take special precautionary measures.