Eluru (Andhra Pradesh) [India], February 14 (HBTV): A bird flu outbreak has been reported in Eluru district, with approximately one lakh chickens dying at a poultry farm in Badampudi, Unguturu. Authorities confirmed the presence of bird flu following laboratory tests, prompting urgent containment measures, including the establishment of a control room and the deployment of Rapid Response Teams.

Eluru District Collector K. Vetriselvi stated, 'Recently, a large number of chickens died at a poultry farm in Badampudi, Unguturu. The Eluru district authorities sent samples for laboratory testing, and the lab confirmed that the samples tested positive for bird flu.'

In response, the district administration convened an emergency meeting, instructing officials to take immediate action. A control room has been set up at the Animal Husbandry Department, with a dedicated helpline number: 9966779943.

Authorities, noticing the sudden mass deaths of poultry, swiftly collected samples and confirmed the presence of bird flu. To manage the crisis, a toll-free number and a command control center have been established for reporting poultry deaths, while 20 Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to contain the outbreak.

The Collector has advised residents within a 10-kilometer radius of the affected poultry farm to remain cautious. Officials have been directed to implement preventive measures and raise public awareness to curb the spread of the infection.

Additionally, Vetriselvi warned against misinformation regarding bird flu being detected in humans in Eluru. She urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims and emphasized the importance of relying on official sources for accurate information. (ANI)