H5N1 avian influenza virus confirmed in two panchayats in Kerala’s Kottayam

In Kerala, a highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus has been confirmed in two panchayats in Kottayam district. Tests conducted at the National Insitute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal has confirmed the presence of the virus in Aarppookara and Thalayazham panchayats in the district.

The Animal Husbandry Department will begin today the culling of about 8000 domestic birds in a one km radius of the areas where the disease has been confirmed.

The authorities have imposed a  blanket ban on the movement of poultry in the 10 km radius of the affected areas.