Rapid response team formed after large-scale chicken deaths in Chittoor district

Following large-scale chicken deaths in Karvetinagaram mandal, Chittoor district administration has formed a rapid response team to tackle any eventuality in the wake of ongoing avian influenza outbreak cases in neighbouring Tamil Nadu. The Chittoor district administration has alerted local poultry farmers to remain vigilant.

Collector Sumit Kumar, who held a video-conference with the officials on Sunday following the death of large number of chickens at RK Peta (RKNB Peta) and nearby areas in Karvetinagaram mandal, asked the Animal Husbandry Department to form a rapid response team, make a ground visit and conduct preliminary enquiry. Mr Sumit Kumar wanted the officials to organise a cleanliness drive in the affected areas, in coordination with the District Planning Officer, District Medical and Health Officer, and Joint Director (veterinary).

Mr. Sumit Kumar said the chicken samples were sent to National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal and they were awaiting the results. He asked the public not to panic and to stay alert till the results arrived.

He instructed the poultry farm owners to enforce strict bio-security measures and bar outsiders from entering their farms. He stated that consuming chicken or egg did not pose any risk, provided they were cooked above 70 degree Celsius.

He also urged the poultry farmers to immediately inform the Animal Husbandry Department officials if they observe large-scale chicken death in their farms.The Collector said that avian influenza spreads among birds and not to human beings.

In case of increased death of poultry, the farmers were advised to contact Animal Husbandry Department officials on 70131 19447 or District Control Room on 08572 242730. For any information related to the deaths of chicken, the farmers can also contact Dr. Hema Kumar on 9959763573 or Dr Krishna on 9390318814.

Mr. Sumit Kumar assured to take all measures to protect the poultry sector as well as public health.