Centre Urges Preventive Measures Across INDIA as Four States Report Avian Influenza

New Delhi: The Centre has urged all states and Union Territories to implement preventive measures following reports of the H5N1 virus in four states. A joint advisory from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was issued on May 20, detailing steps to combat Avian Influenza.

Key measures include:

Healthcare Training: States are to train healthcare workers and private practitioners on Avian Influenza’s case definitions, signs, and symptoms.
Monitoring and Reporting: Vigilance for unusual deaths among domestic birds or poultry is required, with immediate reporting to the Department of Animal Husbandry to initiate public health actions.
Biosecurity Measures: States must enhance biosecurity in poultry establishments, zoos, and markets. This includes restricting farm access, enforcing hygiene protocols, and preventing contact between wild birds and domestic poultry.
Public Awareness: Enhanced Information, Education, and Communication tools will inform the public on preventive measures, such as minimizing direct contact with dead or sick birds and following food safety practices.
Preparedness: States should stockpile antiviral drugs (Oseltamivir), PPE, and masks, and prepare isolation wards in dedicated hospitals for potential cases.
Enhanced Surveillance: Increased surveillance in wet markets, abattoirs, and among poultry farm workers, as well as expanded surveillance in sewage samples and water bodies, in collaboration with NCDC, ICMR, and DAHD.
Sample Testing and Compliance: Timely sharing of collected samples with DAHD and the Health Ministry is essential. States must comply with SARI surveillance guidelines and monitor their implementation at senior levels.
Human Case Monitoring: In outbreak areas, states must collect samples from cullers and surveillance workers on the fifth and tenth days post-sanitization for H5N1 testing and conduct health check-ups for these workers for 10 days.
Protective Measures: Chemoprophylaxis, management, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are emphasized, along with following SOPs for sample collection and transportation.
Coordinated Response: A multi-departmental response involving veterinary services, health, wildlife, and local authorities is required. Regular meetings are advised to share information, assess the situation, and adjust strategies.