Telangana on High Alert After 2,500 Chickens Die, Possible Bird Flu Outbreak Suspected

Hyderabad - Health authorities in Telangana's Wanaparthy district have issued an alert following the death of 2,500 chickens at a poultry farm over three days, raising concerns about a possible bird flu outbreak.

K. Venkateshwar, District Veterinary and Animal Husbandry officer, confirmed that the deaths occurred at Premium Poultry Farm in Konnur village of Madanapuram mandal. The mortality pattern showed 117 chickens died on February 16, followed by 300 on February 17, and the remaining birds on February 18.

"We will reach a conclusion only after receiving the report from the laboratory. In the meantime we are taking all precautions to check its spread," an official stated.

Samples have been collected and sent to a laboratory to determine if the deaths were caused by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), which recently affected several districts in neighboring Andhra Pradesh. Officials emphasized that they haven't yet confirmed whether the deaths resulted from bird flu or another disease.

The veterinary department has implemented surveillance measures in the affected area and neighboring farms. Local poultry farmers have been advised to remain vigilant and immediately report any unusual symptoms or bird deaths.

This development follows a significant bird flu outbreak in Andhra Pradesh that led to the culling of over 100,000 chickens. In response to that outbreak, Telangana had already halted chicken imports from Andhra Pradesh.

The poultry industry in both Telugu states has been significantly impacted by these health concerns, with authorities implementing containment measures including establishment of red zones and surveillance zones to prevent further spread.