Karnataka Contains H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak After 10-Day Surveillance Drive

The Karnataka government has completed a 10-day intensive surveillance and containment operation following an outbreak of H5N1 Avian Influenza (bird flu) at the State Poultry Rearing Training Centre in Mathkuru village, Hesaraghatta, first reported on April 14.

The outbreak was confirmed by the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, triggering swift action by state authorities. An infected zone of 0-3 km and a surveillance zone of 3-10 km were established, with the Department of Animal Husbandry culling all birds and safely disposing of eggs and contaminated feed in line with biosecurity protocols.

Health officials, in coordination with veterinary teams, conducted door-to-door surveillance across 22 villages , covering a population of over 28,000. Multiple rounds of monitoring and sanitation were carried out during the period. Samples from quarantined staff, tested at the National Institute of Virology, returned negative for H5N1 , and no human infections have been reported so far. Final round test results are awaited.

Authorities have directed healthcare facilities to maintain vigilance for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases, while ensuring adequate stocks of protective gear and antiviral medicines. Poultry activity at the affected centre has been suspended for 90 days , with periodic disinfection planned.

H5N1 is a highly contagious viral disease affecting birds, with rare transmission to humans through close contact. While the outbreak is contained, experts caution that spillover risk to neighbouring states such as Andhra Pradesh and Telangana remains , particularly via poultry movement or migratory birds, though strict monitoring reduces the likelihood.

The public has been advised to avoid handling sick birds, report unusual deaths, and consume only properly cooked poultry products .