Karnataka’s Bidar on High Alert Over Bird Flu Threat

Amid growing concerns over avian influenza, Karnataka’s Bidar district has issued a high alert after the virus was confirmed in crows in Maharashtra’s Latur district. The outbreak near the Karnataka-Maharashtra border has prompted authorities to enhance monitoring and precautionary steps.

To curb the spread, the Animal Husbandry Department has swiftly enforced a ban on poultry transport, including chickens, eggs, and related products, from Maharashtra. Officials fear that contaminated poultry could introduce the virus into Bidar, necessitating stringent measures.

Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, Narasappa, stated, “We have implemented a total restriction on poultry product entry from Maharashtra as a safeguard.” Strict inspections are being conducted at checkpoints along the border to prevent any potential virus infiltration into Karnataka.

Security posts have been established at critical border points in Bhalki, Kamalnagar, Basavakalyan, and Aurad taluks, with an additional region under close observation. Personnel from the Animal Husbandry Department, local law enforcement, and health officials are stationed at these posts to thoroughly examine all poultry shipments.

Vehicles carrying unauthorized poultry products are turned back, and violators are penalized. Awareness campaigns are being conducted among poultry farmers and transporters to educate them on the risks involved.

As the outbreak in Latur is not an isolated case, continuous surveillance is crucial in preventing the spread.

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