All Kanpur zoo staff test negative for bird flu; surveillance continues

Kanpur: Amid bird flu scare, the Kanpur zoo administration received some relief on Thursday as all 90 samples of staff and associated personnel at the facility tested negative for avian influenza.

This was confirmed through a communique issued by the district magistrate office.

Meanwhile, the animal husbandry department sent 40 surveillance samples to IVRI, Bareilly, with 15 from urban areas and 25 from rural areas. Previously, they sent 380 samples, including 340 for surveillance.

Currently, 13 rapid response teams (RRT) are active, with 10 in rural and three in urban areas. The district has not reported any unusual bird deaths or concerning situations in either urban or rural areas.

The district administration has not imposed any restrictions on poultry trade or transport.

It has also released control room numbers-- 0512-2535098 (animal husbandry department) and 9395333671 (health department) in case of any emergency.

Meanwhile, the team from the Centre, including scientists from four prestigious institutions, visited Kanpur to ensure compliance with avian influenza prevention measures and suggested some measures. The zoo authorities have implemented enhanced monitoring protocols and are conducting regular health checkups of all birds, particularly focusing on migratory species.

The animal husbandry department continues its monitoring throughout the district. The surveillance teams are collecting samples, covering both domestic and wild birds. The department has established a robust testing mechanism with quick response protocols in place.

The RRTs are equipped with necessary protective gear and sampling kits. They are following standard operating procedures while collecting samples. The teams conduct regular visits to poultry farms, wetlands and areas where migratory birds congregate.

Local authorities are working closely with veterinary experts to maintain stringent hygiene protocols. The zoo staff have been trained in proper handling procedures and early detection of symptoms. Regular sanitisation of enclosures and feeding areas continues as per standard protocols.

The district administration maintains regular communication with state and central authorities. The public is advised to report any incidents of unusual bird deaths to the control room numbers.