ROURKELA: District authorities were prompted to sound a high alert after a report of Bird flu in Rourkela, Odisha.
"Following reports about H5N1 avian flu influenza, we are on high alert and are keeping a close watch on the development round the clock," said Sundargarh Collector B S Punia, adding that "A team of experts will arrive from Bhubaneswar to take stock of the situation."
A task force meeting comprising officials from the administration, health department, Rourkela Municipal Corporation and Rourkela Steel Plant was held to assess the situation, officials said.
As a precautionary measure, the administration has shut down Indira Gandhi Park, a major tourist destination in the city, for an indefinite period.
The decision was taken in view of the report about the presence of H5N1 virus received from the National Institute of High Security Animal Disease Laboratory (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.
Sub-Divisional Medical Officer Pushpa Mishra advised people to use masks and report any death of birds or people who were feeling uneasy.
In the last one week, dead crows were found in the local Central Industrial Security Force colony. Subsequently, three pelicans, two white ibis and one duck were found dead in quick succession after which samples were sent to the Bhopal laboratory.
Meanwhile, a team led by joint director of disease control, B K Parida, along with a scientist arrived at Rourkela from Bhubaneswar. Four rapid response teams have been formed to keep an eye on the development here and have been formed with experts from different departments.
The Odisha government had on December 28 formally launched the culling of chickens suspected to be affected by H5N1 virus at Keranga village under Khurda district.
The villagers also came forward to support the culling operation after they were made aware of the impact of the bird flu, which may also affect human beings, according to Fisheries and Animal Resources Secretary B P Sethi.