A mysterious virus has caused mass deaths among chickens in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over the past few days sparking fear among locals. Authorities have confirmed that this is not bird flu but a different unidentified infection. The exact nature of the virus remains unclear. Due to the outbreak poultry prices in these states have dropped significantly yet consumers are avoiding chicken consumption. Recently cases have also been reported in Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.

Details & Context

The large-scale deaths of chickens have become a major concern for the central government. With reduced egg production and rising poultry mortality the government has directed state authorities to take immediate action to control the spread. The Telangana Animal Husbandry Department is following government guidelines and has instructed district officials to implement necessary measures.

Preventive Measures & Biosecurity

Poultry farm owners have been advised to strictly follow ‘biosecurity protocols’ to prevent further infections. Infected chickens are being buried safely and strict measures have been imposed on the transportation of live poultry. Additionally the sale of dead chickens has been completely banned.

Consumers have also been urged to take precautions while purchasing chicken. Authorities recommend buying only freshly slaughtered poultry instead of pre-cut meat from markets.

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Major Impact on Poultry Industry

In Telangana’s Kamareddy district thousands of chickens reportedly died in Barlam Camp village. Similarly over ‘6,000 broiler chickens’ perished in poultry farms across Thirumalapur and Birkoor mandals. Experts fear that this outbreak could severely impact the poultry industry.

West Bengal on High Alert

Concerns have also spread to West Bengal, which heavily depends on egg imports from Andhra Pradesh. Officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent the infection from spreading. The ‘West Bengal Poultry Federation’ has assured that strict inspections have been in place since November to curb any potential outbreak.

With the poultry sector under severe distress authorities are working to control the situation. Consumers are advised to stay cautious and farmers must follow safety measures to prevent further losses.