Bird Flu Detected in Bihar; Hens Culled and Patna Zoo Temporarily Closed

Health and animal-care authorities in Bihar have reported bird flu outbreaks in the state, prompting the culling of infected poultry and the temporary closure of Patna Zoo as a precautionary measure to prevent further spread of the virus.

The outbreak was confirmed after several hens on a private poultry farm exhibited symptoms associated with avian influenza last week, leading veterinary teams to conduct tests that returned positive for the virus. Following the diagnosis, officials ordered the humane culling of affected and exposed birds to contain the disease.

As part of preventive action, animal health authorities and officials from the Department of Environment and Forests decided to temporarily close the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo) to public visitors. The closure will remain in effect until thorough sanitation, disinfection and surveillance measures are completed within the zoo premises.

State health officials have issued advisories urging residents, particularly those in rural and peri-urban areas, to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report unusual bird deaths to local veterinary or health departments. They also advised poultry handlers, farmers and the general public to strictly follow hygiene protocols and biosecurity measures suggested by experts.

The state has ramped up monitoring in vulnerable districts and initiated awareness campaigns to prevent human exposure to infected birds. Officials said there are no confirmed human cases so far, and the situation is being closely monitored.

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