Bhagalpur/Patna: The administration in Bhagalpur has stepped up surveillance after bird flu was confirmed in crows found dead in the Naugachhia subdivision, raising concerns over the spread of the virus among wild birds in the region. Poultry farms in nearby areas are now under watch, while similar reports of crow deaths in neighbouring Katihar have added to local unease.
Dozens of crows were found dead near the sub-divisional office in Naugachhia on January 11. Samples collected by the Animal Husbandry Department were sent for serum testing, which later confirmed the presence of avian influenza. The report was received by district officials on Friday.
In Katihar’s Kursela block, residents reported the suspicious deaths of several crows in a bamboo grove near the sub-health centre in North Muradpur panchayat on Saturday. While test results from Katihar are awaited, the incidents have heightened vigilance across the two districts.
Bhagalpur district animal husbandry officer Anjali Kumari Sinha said the infection had so far been detected only in wild birds and urged residents not to panic. “There are very few poultry farms in the affected area, and even those are currently vacant,” she said, adding that the entire locality was sanitised on Saturday, with further disinfection planned.
Teams have been deployed to conduct serum sampling, including at poultry farms in and around Naugachhia. Officials clarified that there are currently no restrictions on the sale of chicken or other poultry products. However, poultry farmers have been advised to maintain strict hygiene and immediately report any unusual symptoms or bird deaths.
The Forest Department has also been alerted, given that the infection has been confirmed in wild birds. Health officials have reiterated standard precautions, including avoiding the consumption of undercooked meat or eggs. The avian influenza virus is typically destroyed at temperatures above 70°C, and authorities have advised people to ensure poultry products are thoroughly cooked.
According to veterinary officials, symptoms of bird flu in chickens may include bluish discolouration of the comb and feet, swelling of the face and neck, watery discharge from the eyes, and green, watery droppings. Further investigations are ongoing to determine whether the virus has spread beyond wild birds.
