Avian Flu Confirmed in Patna: Zoo Closed

H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed in Patna, India, with infections detected in crows and poultry. The district animal husbandry officer confirmed the outbreak, leading to immediate precautionary measures. The Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, commonly known as Patna Zoo, will be closed to the public for a week, until March 7, to ensure the safety of its wildlife and staff. J-Sector West Park has also been advised to close for the same duration, as both locations fall within a 1-km radius of the confirmed epicenters and are designated as "infected zones."

The Bihar department of dairy, fisheries and animal resources has taken swift action, initiating the culling of 4,575 poultry birds. Laboratory results from NIHSAD, Bhopal, confirmed the H5N1 strain after unusual bird deaths were reported. Rapid response teams have also destroyed 9,662 eggs and 530kg of poultry feed to curb the virus's dissemination. Disinfection operations are actively underway across the infected zones to bolster biosafety protocols in surrounding areas.

Public guidelines have been issued, emphasizing that the H5N1 virus is neutralized at 70°C and that poultry products are safe if cleaned and thoroughly cooked. Officials noted that while avian influenza has been present in India since 2006, no human infections have been recorded to date. Residents are urged to avoid contact with dead birds and report any sick birds to the local animal husbandry department. Symptoms in poultry include head swelling, leg or comb discoloration, and sudden mortality. The public is advised to seek official information from the Patna control room and refrain from spreading unverified rumors.