Published Feb 05, 2026 | 5:11 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 05, 2026 | 5:11 PM
Crows. (iStock)
Synopsis: The Union government has advised the State to adopt a coordinated “One Health” approach that integrates animal, human and wildlife health sectors. Tamil Nadu has also been asked to provide regular updates on the situation, including details on bird deaths and control measures, for reporting to international animal health authorities.
Tamil Nadu has stepped up precautionary measures after the Central government confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in crows in Kanchipuram district.
The alert was issued after samples collected in January were tested and verified by the ICAR–National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal. The development has raised concerns about the possible spread of the virus to poultry and the potential public health risk associated with it.
Following the warning, the State’s Animal Husbandry Department has directed district administrations and local bodies to intensify surveillance and strengthen biosecurity practices.
Officials have been instructed to closely monitor any unusual deaths among birds and take immediate action if such cases are reported. Authorities are also carrying out disinfection drives in areas where bird mortality has been noticed to prevent further spread of the disease.
The Centre has issued strict guidelines for handling bird carcasses, stressing that dead birds must be disposed of through deep burial while following bio-safety protocols.
Opening carcasses without protective measures has been strongly discouraged. Officials have also been asked to increase sample collection and testing in poultry farms, duck shelters, wet bird markets and hatcheries to ensure early detection of the infection.
Meanwhile, Forest and Wildlife departments have been tasked with monitoring migratory and wild birds, especially in forest fringe areas, to track possible transmission patterns.
The Union government has advised the State to adopt a coordinated “One Health” approach that integrates animal, human and wildlife health sectors. Tamil Nadu has also been asked to provide regular updates on the situation, including details on bird deaths and control measures, for reporting to international animal health authorities.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, 3 February, Bird flu was also confirmed in a dead crow found at Thrikadaripoyil in Malur Panchayat, Kannur.
Following laboratory testing, the District Collector urged the public to remain cautious, noting that the virus can spread to humans.
Earlier, on January 17, bird flu was also confirmed in a dead crow found at Edakkanam in Iritty, Kannur.
Authorities have advised heightened surveillance and adherence to safety guidelines.
(With inputs from Veny EN and Dileep V Kumar)
