India Confirms H5N1 Bird Flu

NEW DELHI - Feb 20/06 - SNS -- The Indian government confirmed the H5N1 strain of avian influenza was found in dead birds in Maharahstra. Prior to the news, local poultry consumption suffered a steep decline as consumers feared they would catch the disease from handling live chickens in local markets.

Union Minister for Agriculture, Shri Sharad Pawar, said, "The samples have since been tested at HSADL, Bhopal. Test reports confirm that samples are positive for H5N1 strain of Avian Influenza in poultry in Navapur, District Nandurbar, Maharashtra.

"A series of strategic actions have been initiated immediately on confirmation of Avian Influenza. These actions include declaration of infected and surveillance areas, absolute ban on movement of poultry or its products in infected areas, closure of poultry and egg markets and shops, destruction of affected poultry followed by proper disposal etc.

"The Government of India has rushed to Maharashtra vaccines for poultry, Tamiflu for humans and personal protective equipment. Rapid Response Teams of the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have been rushed to the affected areas. The teams of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare are carrying out surveillance of human population in the area."