GORAKHPUR, June 1 —Bird flu has been detected in five localities of Gorakhpur, triggering an immediate ban on live bird markets for 21 days and the launch of extensive culling operations, local officials confirmed Saturday.
The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal identified the presence of H5N1 and H9N2 avian influenza strains in poultry samples collected from the city, said Additional Municipal Commissioner Nirankar Singh.
Samples from Jhungia Bazar, Aluminium Factory area, Taramandal, Bhagat Chauraha, and Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan Zoological Park tested positive, prompting an urgent containment response.
“Culling has started within a one-kilometre radius of each infected site, in full compliance with central government guidelines,” Singh said.
“All live birds in these zones will be culled, and disinfection drives are being carried out to stop further spread.”
In response to the outbreak, Rapid Response Teams have been activated by the Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) and a control room has been set up at the Sadar Veterinary Hospital to coordinate containment measures.
A total of 1,328 poultry samples from Gorakhpur have been tested as part of the ongoing surveillance.
Municipal officials urged residents and poultry businesses to cooperate fully with containment teams to mitigate the risk of transmission.
