Darbhanga: Bird flu has been confirmed in Bihar’s Darbhanga district after the unexplained deaths of a large number of crows triggered concern among residents and local officials. The Animal Husbandry Department verified the presence of avian influenza following laboratory testing, prompting authorities to activate emergency surveillance and containment measures.
The first reports emerged from Ward 31 of Darbhanga city, where locals noticed birds dying over several days. Similar cases were subsequently reported from other parts of the district, raising fears of a wider outbreak. Officials said the pattern of mortality led to immediate sample collection and testing.
According to Naveen Sinha, a ward councillor, samples from the dead birds were sent to a government laboratory in Bhopal on January 12 . The results confirmed avian influenza. Following the diagnosis, the district administration, health department and municipal corporation coordinated a joint response to monitor the situation and prevent further spread.
Teams have begun inspections of poultry farms and backyard bird-rearing units, while sanitation drives and awareness campaigns are being carried out in affected areas. Residents have been advised to avoid contact with dead birds and to report unusual sightings to authorities. Officials say vigilance and early detection remain key to containing the outbreak and protecting both animal and human health.
