Kerala has issued a red alert after the outbreak of bird flu at a poultry farm near Bengaluru, but there is no such fear in the state here.
Animal husbandry officials say there is no need for worry since poultry in the state is not imported from the neighbouring states.
Officials said that the state is ready to handle any emergency situation, if it arises. All district officials have, however, been alerted and instructed to monitor the situation and report any unusual bird death.
Dr Sudarshan Rao, joint director, department of animal husbandry, said, “As of today, no bird has been affected by bird flu, but we are monitoring the situation. Every month, poultry is screened and their health monitored.”
However, the department is preparing itself for any eventuality. Kits required for tackling the flu, which include equipment for field staff, sample collection kits and so forth, are being procured.
Vets are also being trained and officials say a video conference for vets from all districts has been scheduled at the Secretariat for Thursday.
The collectorate will also convene a meeting to take stock of the situation. The preparation regime is expected to be completed before November 6.
A control room has also been created in the head office of the department of the animal husbandry. Dr Rao, however, said there is no reason to panic.
Poultry from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu was denied entry into Kerala on Wednesday and inspections have been ordered at border check posts.
The H5N1 was first noticed earlier this week in turkeys at the Central Poultry Development Organization (CPDO) farm near Bangalore.
The virus spread to chicken resulting in the death of around 200 chicken. About 20000 chickens were culled on Tuesday at the CPO farm.