The outbreak of avian flu (H5N1) at the Central Poultry Development Organisation (CPDO) in Hesarghatta has understandably sent a scare among residents of the Bangalore city, but doctors say that there is no need to panic.
Dr Shashidhar Buggi, director, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases, says only those who are in close contact with the affected birds need to be a little careful. He said the bird flu virus first transmits from bird to bird and then from bird to man through the air just like any other flu.
The flu detected in Hesarghatta is only at the bird stage. If basic precautions are taken, it is safe to eat chicken too, Dr Buggi said. “Following these reports of avian flu (H5N1) and the scare, it is normal for people to stop eating poultry. But if poultry is cooked properly before consumption, it is safe. People should follow proper hygiene practices and stay safe.”
Those living or working close to poultry farms should be alert to symptoms such as high fever, body ache, sore throat, headache, and sneezing and immediately report to the health authorities. There is not a single case of avian flu at either his institution or NIMHANS, Dr Buggi said.
Dr H. Paramesh, pulmonologist and president, Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes’ Association (PHANA), also emphasised that since the disease is as yet confined to the bird population, there is no need to panic. The authorities are culling all birds and individuals should ensure good hygiene, he added.
An official in the State Health and Family Welfare Department said that the department is prepared to handle any emergency and has adequate stocks of Tamiflu, which is used to treat the disease.
“Our doctors are conducting medical check-ups of those who are involved in the culling operations on a daily basis. We have already started giving them prophylactic doses of Tamiflu as a preventive measure,” he said.