Erode's Defense Against Avian Flu: Rapid Response Teams Activated

The Animal Husbandry Department in Erode has deployed Rapid Response Teams to protect poultry from bird flu. With 62.20 lakh poultry birds in the district, preventive measures are underway despite no reported cases in Tamil Nadu. Surveillance includes farm inspections and advisories to control potential outbreaks.

The Animal Husbandry Department in Erode has launched Rapid Response Teams to shield domesticated birds such as chickens and ducks from the looming threat of bird flu, announced Erode Collector Raja Gopal Sunkara on Monday.

According to official records, approximately 62.20 lakh poultry birds are housed across the district's farms. Although avian influenza has been detected in certain other Indian states, a series of precautionary measures have been introduced locally to ensure the flu doesn’t spread here.

The department has tactically deployed 50 Rapid Response Teams ready to spring into action if any cases arise. These teams are bolstered by routine inspections and the issuance of preventative guidance to farm owners. The Collector emphasized that no bird flu cases have yet been reported in Erode or across Tamil Nadu, but proactive steps are necessary given outbreaks in neighboring regions.