H5N1 Outbreak Kills 44 Peacocks in Tumakuru, Karnataka Expands Surveillance to 33 Villages

An outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza has caused the death of 44 peacocks in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district, triggering an expanded surveillance and containment response across forest and rural areas.

The infection was confirmed by the ICAR–National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal , after samples from carcasses tested positive for the virus. The deaths were reported between April 16 and April 24 across areas including Bommanahalli, Kolihalli, Hirehalli, Kesaramadu and Gulur villages.

Authorities initially suspected heat-related stress, but laboratory confirmation later established the cause as bird flu (H5N1) . No fresh deaths have been reported since April 23, officials said.

Following the confirmation, Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre directed strict implementation of the Centre’s revised H5N1 action plan , with enhanced surveillance in forests, zoos, bird sanctuaries, Magadi Lake and the Kokkare Bellur reserve.

A 0–3 km infected zone and a 10-km surveillance zone have been demarcated. Around 33 villages have been placed on high alert , with disinfection drives, monitoring of poultry farms, and restrictions on bird movement intensified.

Rapid response teams from forest, health and animal husbandry departments are conducting joint surveillance. Authorities have also intensified monitoring for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) in nearby populations covering over 20,000 people.

Health officials confirmed that no human infections have been detected so far , though several exposed workers and residents are under observation as a precaution.

The public has been advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds, maintain hygiene, use protective equipment when necessary, and ensure poultry is thoroughly cooked above 80°C.