ICAR-NIHSAD Detects Avian Influenza (H5N1) from Government Poultry Farm Samples in Bokaro, Jharkhand

The state is advised to carry out control and containment operations in accordance with the Action Plan for Avian Influenza Prevention, Control, and Containment (2021). The Department has assigned a two-person central team to assist the State with control and containment operations.

In addition, the Ministry of Health has assigned a central team to oversee human-sector surveillance. The Secretary, AHD, Government of India spoke on the phone with the Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Government of Jharkhand about appropriate preventive measures and assured them of the Government of India's full support.

The Animal Husbandry Commissioner met with the State Animal Husbandry Departments of Jharkhand and West Bengal and recommended effective control measures to prevent the disease from spreading to other areas.

Furthermore, the Animal Husbandry Commissioner convened a virtual meeting with the concerned officials of Jharkhand's State Animal Husbandry Department to sensitize all parties prior to the implementation of control and containment measures outlined in the Action Plan.

Farmers are compensated when the State culls/disposes of their poultry birds, eggs, and poultry feed in accordance with the action plan. Under the ASCAD component of its LH & DCP Scheme, the Government of India's Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) provides funds to the States/UTs on a 50:50 sharing basis.

It is recommended that the state keep a sufficient supply of PPE kits and other culling accessories on hand. The state has been asked to work with the departments of Health and Forestry to educate them about Avian Influenza. The State is also required to submit a daily report to this Department on the control measures they have implemented. The Department maintains constant contact with State Government officials and keeps a close eye on the situation.