It is learnt that the state government has received an advisory from the Centre on the issue of bird flu and that the animal husbandry department has been notified of the same.
Union minister for animal husbandry, fisheries and dairying has allayed fears of the avian influenza while at the same time has advised people to cook properly meat and poultry products before consuming them.
There has been an Avian influenza outbreak in Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Rajasthan where as many as twelve epicentres have been identified. In some places there have been reports of migratory birds dying from bird flu.
While some of the affected states have started culling the birds, regulating the sale of poultry and related products, the neighbouring States are keeping a check on the interstate movement of the poultry products especially in the border districts.
Experts have maintained that bird-to human spread of the viral disease is possible only if the poultry products are not properly cooked.
As of now no cases of bird flu have been reported in the State of Karnataka, but officials have been directed to take all preventive measures. Goa too needs to be vigilant.
