H5N1 AVIAN INFLUENZA ALERT

NEWS: Over 40 peacocks died in Tumakuru due to H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu).

Precautionary Measures

• Mysuru Zoo and nearby bird sanctuaries (including Karanji Lake Park) placed on high alert.
• Strict biosecurity and monitoring measures implemented.
• Zoo authorities and staff actively monitoring bird health.
• Public Access: Despite precautions, Mysuru Zoo remains open to visitors with safety protocols.

H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

• A highly pathogenic strain of Influenza A virus that mainly infects birds, especially poultry.
• First identified in 1996 in China; spreads through contact with infected birds, droppings, or contaminated surfaces.
• Primarily affects wild and domestic birds, but can occasionally infect humans and mammals.
• Human Infection: Rare but serious, Caused by close contact with infected birds
• High fatality rate (~50%), but limited human-to-human transmission

Symptoms

• Symptoms in Humans: Fever, cough, sore throat, breathing difficulty, pneumonia
• Symptoms in Birds: Sudden death, respiratory distress, drop in egg production

Prevention & Control

• Culling infected birds
• Strict biosecurity measures
• Avoid contact with sick/dead birds
• Surveillance and vaccination (in some cases)