Initial samples test positive for bird flu

Birdflu-ThimphuThe initial testing of samples for bird flu or Avian Influenza H5N1 from Motithang in Thimphu have tested positive, according to Programme Director of National Centre for Animal Health, Dr. Kinzang Dukpa.

The sample testing was carried out after a suspected outbreak of Avian Influenza H5N1 virus in a colony in Motithang, last week. Of the 32 chicken reared by six households, 16 had died.

Dr. Kinzang Dukpa said the samples have been sent to the National Institute of High Security Disease Laboratory at Bopal, India, for confirmatory testing. He said it is an international protocol that they have to follow.

“At this point of time, although we have diagnosed the disease at NCAH, we have not declared it officially because as per international protocol we need to reconfirm it by sending the samples to India.”

Dr. Kinzang Dukpa said they are expecting the results in two-three days. “As soon as we get the results, we will further decide what the next action would be”.

From April 8 onwards, Dr. Kinzang Dukpa said the Department of Livestock along with Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority have put in place disease containment activities.

The birds have been quarantined, affected area disinfected and decontaminated and movement of poultry and poultry products out of the infected area controlled.

Dr. Kinzang Dukpa said the situation is under control.

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