Chicken Sales Drop, Mutton Demand Soars by 20% Amid Bird Flu Cases Reported In Chikkaballapur

After Chikkaballapur and Bellary, the fear of bird flu has now gripped Bengaluru. With bird flu confirmed in neighboring district Chikkaballapur, the health department has issued an alert and rolled out preventive measures. Guidelines for controlling the outbreak have been implemented, and all government hospitals in Bengaluru have been instructed to be prepared with dedicated isolation wards.

RTPCR Test Mandatory for Suspected Cases

To curb the spread, RTPCR testing has been made mandatory for individuals showing symptoms of bird flu. The health department has advised people experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms to consult a doctor immediately. Additionally, officials plan to screen all workers at the affected sites to prevent further transmission, said Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.

'No Need to Panic, But Stay Cautious'

Doctors have reassured the public that bird flu is manageable and not a cause for alarm if precautions are followed. "There is no issue if meat is cooked properly before consumption," said Dr. Rekha from KC General Hospital's General Medicine Department. However, she emphasized the need for vigilance and advised people not to ignore symptoms.

Chicken Sales Drop, Mutton Demand Rises

As bird flu fears spread, Bengaluru residents have started avoiding chicken, leading to a sudden surge in mutton sales. "Since Sunday, demand for mutton has increased by nearly 20%," said Santosh, a local mutton stall owner.

While the health department remains on high alert, the shift in meat consumption patterns highlights public concerns over the outbreak. Officials continue to monitor the situation and implement necessary safeguards to prevent further spread.