Bird Flu Scare in Chennai: H5N1 Virus Confirmed in Dead Crows, Officials Issue Alerts

• Over 1500 crows have died in Chennai since January, with samples confirming the presence of the highly dangerous Avian Influenza (H5N1) virus.
• The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases Lab in Bhopal confirmed the H5N1 virus after testing samples of dead crows from Chennai.
• Chennai Metropolitan Corporation and Animal Husbandry Department teams are disinfecting affected areas, burying dead birds, and increasing surveillance on poultry farms.
• Government guidelines advise against touching dead birds, reporting unusual bird deaths, wearing masks in parks, and thoroughly cooking poultry and eggs.
• While human infection risk is low, officials urge caution, especially for those consuming chicken, and advise vigilance in neighboring Telugu states.