UP CM Yogi issues bird flu alert, orders extra vigil in zoos, parks and poultry farms

The Uttar Pradesh government has issued a bird flu alert, directing intensified surveillance across zoos, bird sanctuaries, national parks, wetlands and cow shelters in view of potential avian influenza cases. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday instructed immediate implementation of central and state guidelines to prevent any outbreak.

Sanitisation of zoo premises is to be carried out regularly, with measures such as blow-torching where necessary, alongside mandatory health checks for all animals and birds. The Chief Minister said food for animals must be served only after thorough inspection, and staff duties in enclosures should be assigned based on risk levels to ensure safety.

Zoo staff are to receive training on identifying and containing bird flu, formally known as avian influenza, and must be equipped with PPE kits and other protective gear. The directive also includes enhanced monitoring of poultry farms, strict compliance with operational standards, and tight control over the movement of poultry products within the state.

The Health Department has been instructed to study the potential impact of the disease on humans and present a report recommending measures to prevent its spread among the general public. The assessment is to focus on preparedness and immediate response mechanisms if any human cases are detected.

Coordination has been ordered with the Central Zoo Authority, National Centre for Disease Control, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Fisheries and Dairy Department, and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly. All departments are required to ensure timely execution of recommendations issued by these agencies.