LUCKNOW: In light of the alleged threat of a bird flu outbreak in western Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday issued directives to the departments concerned to coordinate and implement measures to prevent the prevalence of the H5 virus in the state.
He instructed the authorities to intensify efforts in all zoos, sanctuaries, national parks, and other protected areas. Simultaneously, the Health Department has been tasked with conducting an in-depth study on the potential impact of H5 avian influenza on human health and to present a report aimed at preventing any possible chain of infection from reaching human society.
There have been unconfirmed reports that around 15,000 poultry deaths were allegedly recorded at two poultry farms in Rampur within the past 24 hours. Emergency containment measures were implemented in Rampur district after laboratory tests confirmed an outbreak of avian influenza (bird flu).
The virus was diagnosed in poultry birds in Rampur’s Bilaspur tehsil, which borders Rudrapur in Uttarakhand, prompting the local administration to launch public awareness announcements across the city on Monday evening.
The CM stated, “Any kind of negligence in the safety of protected animals and birds at any level will not be tolerated.” He also directed the authorities to monitor wetlands and cow shelters across the state while implementing measures in accordance with central and state guidelines immediately.
In addition to regular sanitisation of zoo premises, including blow-torching where necessary, the authorities were instructed to ensure mandatory health check-ups for all animals and birds.
The CM further said that food should be given only after thorough diet inspections and that staff duties in enclosures must be assigned based on risk levels to ensure full safety compliance.
CM Yogi also directed that all zoo staff be trained to identify avian influenza symptoms, modes of transmission, and prevention methods. They should be equipped with PPE kits and safety gear to ensure personal protection alongside the performance of their duties.
He called for strict monitoring of all poultry farms in Uttar Pradesh in line with prescribed standards, along with tight control over the movement of poultry products.
The CM also ordered constant coordination with the Central Zoo Authority, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Health Ministry, the Fisheries and Dairy Department, and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly to ensure timely implementation of their recommendations.