NEW DELHI: The Centre today reviewed prevailing situation of Avian Influenza (H5N8) in wild and migratory birds across states and has asked National Institute of Virology, Pune to carry out genome studies and sequencing of the new virus to know the source of origin of the infection.
A meeting was convened under the Chairmanship of Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries Devendra Chaudhry and experts from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ministry of Health, National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal and state officials participated in it.
There has been report of infection and deaths of birds from Delhi, Punjab, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh so far.
With concerns being raised by states over delay in sample testing, it was emphasised in the meeting to expedite the testing of samples and timely actions thereafter so as to facilitate states in taking effective control and containment measures to prevent the spread of disease to other states.
A video conferencing to assess the situation and preparedness in states will be held on November 2.
According to Ministry of Health, on the public health risk of Avian Influenza A H5N8, World Health Organization has informed that “based on current knowledge, the risk of zoonotic transmission is considered low for H5N8”.
As a matter of abundant caution, health ministry has advised the state health departments to use personal protective equipment by those handling dead and sick birds, keep persons exposed to the these birds under surveillance and provide them Oseltamivir 75 mg once daily for 10 days.