BBP raises vigilance against bird flu

Bengaluru: With a high alert sounded across the State over the outbreak of bird flu, the authorities at the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) have stepped up vigilance for any symptoms among captive birds in the park and nearby areas and strengthened preparedness with specific reference to bio-security measures concerning avian influenza as per the generic guidelines relating to Avian Influenza from Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

A statement released by the BBP on Thursday said, "As Covid-19 precautionary measures for staff and visitors as per the government guidelines are in place, the following bio-security measures are taken to prevent the bird flu at BBP. Park authorities have also put in place safety measures for staff and visitors. Washing hands with soap and water often, wearing rubber gloves and protective clothing that can be disinfected or disposed of and protective eyewear or a face shield while handling birds/ animals is a must. Also instructions have been issued to staff for proper cleaning of bird and animal enclosures with anti-septic solutions and ensuring the dryness of the enclosures."

According to the reports, the staff at BBP is constantly watching the birds. Should one of them die, they would isolate them and hold a post-mortem. They will also watch for any symptoms of H5N1 virus. BBP houses about 378 birds of 45 species. After the outbreak of H5NI or bird flu, jungle cats, leopards and other carnivorous animals were fed beef and milk instead of chicken.  

New guideline at BBP 

♥ Daily disinfection in and around bird enclosures with antiviral spray and lime powder.

♥ Staff not allowed to eat, drink, or smoke while handling birds/animals.

♥ Movement of persons and vehicle near the aviary and bird enclosures restricted

♥ Antiseptic foot dips at the entry and exit gates for staff, visitors and vehicles a must

♥ Animal keepers told to observe any symptoms such as tremors, diarrhoea, head tilt and paralysis in birds and animals and report to the assistant director for necessary action.

♥ Strict vigilance on the movement of wild birds in the safari lakes/water bodies

♥ Random collection of faecal samples with the help of IAH&VB for screening for avian influenza virus in the captive birds.