Centre sends RRT in birdflu affected areas of Bengal

New Delhi, Mar 25 (UNI) With the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries of West Bengal notifying the outbreak of bird flu (Avian Influenza) among poultry in the Block English Bazar area of Malda district on March 19, the the Central Rapid Response Team (RRT) has been deputed to Malda today.

In the earlier notified areas of Jiaganj and Raghunathganj-II blocks, active house-to-house surveillance was continuing. Population of 59769 was covered in 0-3 Km in the affected area. Whereas in 3-10 Km of the area, a population of 16407 was covered, an official release here said.

Two cases of fever/ URI were detected with no exposure/history to infected poultry in the 0-3 Km area.

Meanwhile, 26 animal husbandry workers involved in culling/mop-up activities in the affected areas were under medical supervision.

There was no suspect case of human avian influenza and the situation was being monitored.

UNI/BKS SK RS1706