Bird Flu Outbreak in East Godavari: A Comprehensive Overview + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
In January 2025, a significant outbreak of avian influenza (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, was confirmed at a poultry farm in Kanuru Agraharam, Peravali mandal, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. The National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal verified the presence of the virus following the deaths of numerous poultry layers. This incident has raised concerns about the spread of the virus to humans and its impact on the poultry industry.
Key Takeaways
Extent of the Outbreak
The first suspected bird flu case was reported on January 13, 2025, in Eluru district.
500,000 poultry layers have perished across three hotspots: Peravali and Undrajavaram mandals in East Godavari district and Unguturu mandal in Eluru district.
In Kanuru Agraharam, 71,000 poultry layers have died, leaving only 3,000 alive in the affected unit.
Containment Measures
All poultry within a one-kilometer radius of the Peravali hotspot are being culled.
Ban on the consumption and transportation of chicken within a 10-km radius.
Police, Transportation, and Medical and Health departments are working together on the culling drive.
Surveillance teams conducting door-to-door surveys to identify potential human cases of bird flu.
Invstigations and Precautionse
Officials are tracing egg distribution from Kanuru Agraharam to prevent further spread.
Forest Department is testing migratory birds suspected of carrying the virus.
No deaths of migratory birds have been reported so far.
Residents advised to avoid consuming chicken temporarily.
Do You Know?
Avian Influenza in India
First detected in Maharashtra in February 2006.
Reported in 24 states and union territories.
Led to the culling of over 9 million birds to control its spread.
Recent Developments
In October 2023, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) approved India's self-declaration of freedom from HPAI in specific poultry compartments.
This boosts India's export potential for poultry products.
Static Points about Bird Flu
What is Bird Flu?
Avian influenza (bird flu) is a viral illness affecting poultry and some wild birds.
Spreads through infected birds, droppings, or contaminated environments.
H5N1 Bird Flu
A subtype of the influenza A virus causing severe respiratory disease in birds.
Mortality rate in humans is around 60% when infected.
Origin and Spread
The current H5N1 strain originated from a 1996 outbreak in Guangdong, China.
It spread to Europe (2020), Africa, Asia, North America (2021), and South America (2022).
Reached Antarctica in February 2024.
Reasons Behind Large-Scale Spread
Climate change impacts bird migration, increasing virus transmission.
Warmer sea temperatures affect food availability, making birds more vulnerable to disease.
Transmission to Humans
Close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
Human-to-human transmission is rare.
Cause for Concern
If H5N1 mutates to spread easily among humans, it could cause a global health crisis.
Conclusion
The bird flu outbreak in East Godavari highlights the importance of strict monitoring, rapid response, and public cooperation. While containment measures are in place, following biosecurity protocols and raising awareness are crucial to prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.