Gorakhpur Bird Flu Update: Virus Confirmed in Five Areas, Culling and Disinfection Drive Underway

Ravi Singh

Gorakhpur Bird Flu Update: Bird flu has been officially confirmed in five localities of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, raising serious public health concerns. The areas affected include Jhungia Bazar, Aluminium Factory area, Taramandal, Bhagat Chauraha, and the Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan Zoological Park. In response, the local administration has taken swift and strict action to contain the spread of the virus.

The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, confirmed the presence of highly contagious avian influenza strains H5N1 and H9N2 in the poultry samples. This alarming development led to the immediate closure of all live bird markets across the city for a mandatory 21-day period. Culling operations have already started within a one-kilometre radius of each infected area, following the central government’s protocols.

Additional Municipal Commissioner Nirankar Singh confirmed that Rapid Response Teams have been activated at the district level. A special control room has also been set up at the Sadar Veterinary Hospital to manage and monitor the situation closely. Singh further stated that all birds within the identified zones are being culled and extensive disinfection campaigns are underway to stop the virus from spreading to other areas.

Authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their surveillance efforts. So far, a total of 1,328 samples from various parts of Gorakhpur have been collected and tested to trace the extent of infection. Officials urge residents to stay away from live bird markets, avoid contact with poultry, and report any sudden bird deaths to the control room immediately.

The situation remains under close observation, and the administration has appealed to the public to cooperate fully with health teams and veterinary staff. These preventive measures are crucial in containing the outbreak and safeguarding both public health and the local poultry industry.