Daijiworld Media Network - Nagpur
Nagpur, Apr 5: Zoos and animal rescue centres across Nagpur have stepped up precautionary measures following a bird flu outbreak at the Central Hatchery in Seminary Hills.
Authorities at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoo and the Gorewada Rescue Centre have restricted entry near animal enclosures, allowing only caretakers and veterinarians as a preventive step.
Zoo Director Pandurang Pakhale said feeding of chicken and eggs to animals has been halted, while veterinarians are closely monitoring the health of all animals on a daily basis.
The Transit Treatment Centre (TTC), located within a 2-km radius of the outbreak site, has shifted all birds to isolation wards. Entry to the area has been restricted, with only veterinary staff permitted. Regular disinfection is also being carried out.
Similar precautions are being taken at the Maharajbag Zoo, where authorities are conducting periodic sanitisation to prevent the spread of infection.
The outbreak was confirmed on March 24 after 800 to 1,000 birds died at the Central Hatchery. Tests conducted by the CSIR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal confirmed the presence of the virus.
Following the confirmation, the district administration initiated containment measures, including scientific disposal of poultry and deployment of livestock officials to manage the situation.
An official notification has been issued by the district collector, prompting all animal facilities in the city to remain on high alert.