Patna: The Bihar government has ruled out bird flu or any other contagious disease after reports of unusual crow deaths in parts of the state triggered concern among residents.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Department of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources said samples of dead crows sent for testing had returned negative results for avian influenza and other infectious diseases.
Over the past few days, crow deaths had been reported from select areas of Bhagalpur, including Naugachia, as well as Patna (Patna Sadar) and Darbhanga (municipal corporation area). Following these reports, the Animal Health and Production Institute collected samples and sent them to the Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Kolkata for scientific examination.
Officials said the test results confirmed that there was no epidemic or contagious disease currently affecting birds in the state. “There is no evidence of bird flu or any similar infection,” the department said, urging people not to believe or spread rumours.
As a precaution, the department advised that dead birds should be disposed of in a safe and scientific manner. It also recommended regular cleaning and sanitisation in areas where the deaths were reported and in surrounding localities.
Citizens have been asked to promptly report any unusual incidents or sudden deaths of birds to the nearest veterinary institution or the district administration, so that timely preventive measures can be taken if required.
