NEW DELHI: The National Zoological Park in Delhi has been temporarily shut down as a precautionary measure after a few birds which include Ducks, Rosy Pelicans and Painted Stork dying of H5N1 Avian Influenza.
“Free-ranging Rosy Pelicans, Painted Storks, and Ducks have been found dead in the Park, nine birds have died so far. Some of these birds have tested positive for H5 Avian Influenza virus. It has been decided to close the zoo temporarily for the safety of visitors” the Zoo authorities said in an official statement.
The Delhi Minister for Development Gopal Rai also visited the zoo to make an assessment of the situation. “No need to worry, the government is taking necessary steps.” Rai said after. These cases come a nearly month after India declared itself free from the highly contagious avian influenza (H5N1) or bird flu.
According to sources, the samples of the birds have been sent to Bhopal and Jalandhar for testing, further teams from Central Zoo authority and state are visiting the site to examine the exact cause of the spread of the virus. The floating population of the migratory birds around 150 might be the cause of the highly contagious virus.
The National Zoological Park has been battling with a spate of animal deaths since earlier this year. Around 46 spotted deer were found dead at its premises in January.
Bird flu affects mainly the domestic poultry. The disease spreads from infected birds to other winged creatures through contact with nasal and respiratory secretions and also due to contamination of feed and water.