In the aftermath of four states reporting cases of the H5N1 virus, the Center has requested that all states and Union Territories implement several preventive measures.The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) jointly released an H5N1 advisory for all states on May 20.States have been encouraged to provide education on case definitions, signs, and symptoms of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, to all healthcare personnel and private practitioners.Additionally, it has urged states to keep an eye out for any unexpected mortality among domestic poultry or birds and, if one is discovered, to promptly notify the Department of Animal Husbandry so that public health measures by the national action plan for Avian influenza.Apart from this, the states have been asked to go strict on bio-security measures in all poultry establishments, zoos and markets, after concluding a thorough evaluation. In addition, they have been asked to strengthen the hygiene protocol, which includes the disinfectant footbaths and preventive clothing. It stated that precautions should be taken to avoid wild birds and domestic fowl from coming into contact.The Center has also requested that states have enough masks, personal protective equipment, and antiviral medications (Oseltamivir) in stock for all possible preventive measures. It stated that any suspected cases of avian influenza might need to be treated in isolation rooms and beds at specialty hospitals.The alert stated that increased surveillance for avian influenza is required in wet markets, abattoirs, poultry farm workers, and sewage samples, water bodies, crows, and other areas in cooperation with NCDC, ICMR, and DAHD.
