In light of the bird flu cases being detected in multiple cities of the state, Uttar Pradesh government has banned the import of poultry till the 24th of January. To ensure complete adherence to this decision, authorities have been ordered to keep a strict watch on the state boundaries. Reportedly, the Principal Secretary of the Animal Husbandry department said that the extension of the ban would be discussed later.
Poultry farms across the state on high alert
The entire state of Uttar Pradesh was put on alert after avian flu cases were reported in its multiple cities. While there is no ban on the poultry business in the state, the concerned markets would be closed once a week for the sanitization process. Poultry farm owners have been asked to make sure that cleanliness is maintained and the transportation of eggs, chickens and other birds in open vehicles is prohibited.
As per reports, the Agricultural Production Commissioner has issued directives to the district officials. He has instructed the workers to keep a strict watch on the migrant birds around water bodies and in the poultry farms. If any bird dies abnormally, its samples have to be sent to IVRI, Bareilly or the National Institute of High-Security Animal Disease, Bhopal for examination. Bio-security interventions are being implemented in bird sanctuaries, parks and around water waterbodies.
To combat the spread, control rooms to be set up in all districts
While the Animal Husbandry Department has been directed to remain functional for 24 hours, control rooms are being set up at the district level. District officials are asked to ensure that the task force holds at least one meeting in a month and there is sufficient quantity of PPE kits and face masks. Officers are required to ensure that rumours don’t lead the masses towards false fears and misconceptions.
