Bird Flu: Tamil Nadu Mass Culling, Authorities Act Fast on H5N1

Tamil Nadu is on alert after mass deaths of crows across Chennai led to laboratory confirmation of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus, prompting authorities to intensify surveillance and review containment measures, including the possible culling of birds. More than 1,500 crow deaths have been reported so far, triggering coordinated action by veterinary, animal husbandry and public health departments, even as officials stress that no human infections have been detected.

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is caused by influenza A virus that circulates naturally among wild birds such as crows and migratory waterfowl. Highly pathogenic strains like H5N1 can cause severe disease and rapid mortality in birds. The virus spreads through saliva, nasal secretions and droppings, contaminating shared environments such as water bodies and open poultry farms, where transmission to domestic birds becomes possible.

Health and veterinary experts say culling is used during outbreaks to quickly remove infected or high-risk birds and break the chain of transmission. Domestic poultry, kept in dense populations, can amplify the virus rapidly, increasing the risk of wider spread and significant economic losses. Culling also reduces the already low but serious risk of the virus spilling over to humans, which has occurred in rare cases globally following prolonged, unprotected exposure to infected birds.

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When implemented, culling follows strict scientific and biosecurity protocols. Authorities identify infected flocks, define containment zones, humanely depopulate birds where necessary, and ensure safe disposal of carcasses through burial or incineration. Movement of poultry, eggs and related products from affected areas is restricted, while farms and equipment are disinfected to minimise environmental contamination.

Officials note that culling is usually focused on domestic poultry rather than wild birds, as controlling free-ranging species like crows is often impractical. In cases involving wild birds, the emphasis is on monitoring, safe disposal of carcasses and preventing scavengers or humans from coming into contact with infected remains. Poultry hubs such as Namakkal have already stepped up biosecurity measures to prevent any spillover.

Public health authorities continue to advise residents to avoid handling sick or dead birds, report unusual bird deaths promptly and maintain basic hygiene practices. Experts emphasise that the risk to the general public remains low, but early containment is crucial. By combining surveillance, biosecurity and targeted culling where necessary, officials aim to contain the outbreak swiftly while protecting public health and the poultry sector.

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