Bird Flu Alert In Andhra Pradesh: High Vigilance In One District, Government Issues Advisory

Last Updated:February 10, 2026, 16:45 IST

Deaths of chickens were reported from Chittoor and Annamayya, prompting the Animal Husbandry Department to send samples to National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, has triggered fresh concern in parts of Andhra Pradesh, prompting the state government to step up surveillance and containment measures. While officials stress that the situation remains under control, precautionary steps have been intensified not only in the affected pockets but also in neighbouring villages and districts to prevent further spread.

Deaths of country chickens were reported from parts of Chittoor and Annamayya districts, prompting the Animal Husbandry Department to send samples to the Bhopal-based National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases for testing.

State minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu has urged people not to panic, stating that the outbreak is being handled through coordinated action by animal husbandry and local administrative teams. He stressed that early detection and rapid response are helping authorities keep the risk contained.

Cases Surface In Annamayya District

The immediate alert was issued after suspected bird flu cases emerged in Sadum mandal of Annamayya district. Unusual bird deaths were reported in villages such as Puttavaripalli and Ammagaripalli, prompting swift intervention by officials. Once the infection was suspected, special Rapid Action Teams were deployed to the area.

These teams are carrying out scientific culling of infected birds, disinfecting poultry farms and surrounding zones, and restricting the movement of birds and farm equipment. Such containment protocols are standard practice to stop avian influenza from spreading to healthy flocks.

Surveillance Extended To Chittoor

Authorities have also widened monitoring to nearby regions after reports of unexplained bird deaths surfaced in parts of Chittoor district, including Karvetinagaram mandal. Samples from affected birds have been collected and sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases laboratory in Bhopal for confirmatory testing. Officials said further action will depend on laboratory findings.

Guidelines For Poultry Farmers

The Animal Husbandry Department has issued continuous advisories to poultry farmers in and around affected zones. Farm owners have been asked to strictly follow biosecurity norms, limit entry of outsiders into poultry sheds, and immediately report any sudden or unusual bird deaths to veterinary officials. Field teams led by senior department officers are visiting villages to spread awareness and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

No Need To Fear Cooked Chicken Or Eggs

Amid rising public concern, the government has clarified that bird flu primarily affects birds and does not pose a risk through properly cooked food. Citizens have been reassured that thoroughly cooked chicken and boiled eggs remain safe for consumption. However, people are advised to maintain basic hygiene, such as washing hands after handling raw meat and avoiding contact with sick or dead birds.

Officials remain confident that with early intervention, strict monitoring, and public cooperation, the outbreak can be contained before it spreads to other districts. The focus, they say, is on prevention without triggering unnecessary alarm.

News india Bird Flu Alert In Andhra Pradesh: High Vigilance In One District, Government Issues Advisory