Bird Flu Lockdown in Bengaluru: 3km Zone Sealed After H5N1 Outbreak at Hesaraghatta Poultry Center

The detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus at a poultry training centre in Muthkur village near Hesaraghatta on the outskirts of Bengaluru has triggered an immediate containment response from Karnataka authorities.

The infection was confirmed on April 14 following laboratory analysis by the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal. Acting on the report, rapid response teams from the State, District and local Primary Health Centre levels reached the site on April 16 to initiate control measures.

Containment Zones Set Up

Officials have established a 3-km infected zone around the affected poultry centre and a 10-km surveillance zone to prevent further spread. Movement of poultry and related products in these areas is being closely monitored.

Rapid Response Teams were deployed immediately to carry out culling, disinfection and surveillance operations as per standard protocol.

Birds Culled, Eggs Destroyed

As part of precautionary measures, authorities have safely disposed of 7,444 birds and 14,788 eggs from the facility. The culling exercise was conducted under strict biosecurity guidelines.

Personnel involved in the operation are currently under medical observation to rule out any possible exposure.

Door-To-Door Health Monitoring

Health officials have begun active surveillance in 19 surrounding villages, with teams conducting door-to-door visits. Residents are being screened for fever and flu-like symptoms over the next 10 days.

This step is aimed at early detection of any potential human transmission, although such cases remain rare.

Public Advisory Issued

Authorities have urged residents not to panic, stressing that the situation is under control. People have been advised to:

Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
Immediately report unusual bird deaths to officials
Follow hygiene and safety guidelines

The government has also clarified that properly cooked chicken and eggs remain safe for consumption, addressing concerns among consumers.

Local health centres in the affected region have been stocked with adequate medicines and protective equipment to handle any emergency situation.

Officials reiterated that strict surveillance and containment measures are in place to ensure the virus does not spread beyond the identified zones.