4 Lakh Chickens Dead in Andhra Pradesh: Avian Flu Scare?

Andhra Pradesh Faces Chicken Crisis: Nearly Four Lakh Birds Dead

Latest news from Andhra Pradesh reveals a devastating loss for poultry farmers. In the past 45 days, almost four lakh chickens have died in West Godavari district and surrounding areas. This shocking number has prompted the Animal Husbandry Department to spring into action, sending samples to labs in Bhopal and Vijayawada for testing. Officials are working hard to understand what is causing this [[mass mortality]] event.

What’s Causing the Deaths?

The Animal Husbandry director, Damodar Naidu, stated that while there have been deaths, the numbers reported by farmers may be inflated. He also highlighted the issue of farmers neglecting crucial biosecurity measures. This negligence, according to Naidu, is playing a significant role in spreading the disease among the flocks. Improper disposal of dead birds, such as dumping them in canals or on streets, further exacerbates the problem. These practices accelerate the spread of infection, impacting a larger number of birds.

The situation is alarming because, while some level of chicken mortality is normal during seasonal changes, this year’s numbers are significantly higher. This increase is attributed to a combination of factors: a larger number of migratory birds and inadequate biosecurity measures followed by poultry farmers. Authorities are implementing several measures, including awareness programs to educate farmers on the importance of good hygiene and biosecurity. Veterinary teams are visiting farms to provide advice and support. They hope that these combined efforts will bring the situation under control soon.

Avian Influenza Suspected

One potential cause under investigation is avian influenza. While there is a vaccine available for low pathogenic strains, high pathogenic strains currently lack a vaccine. This poses a challenge in managing outbreaks, particularly in large flocks where individual attention is difficult. This underscores the crucial need for better poultry management practices and [[strict biosecurity protocols]].

The Impact on Farmers

The crisis has had a devastating impact on poultry farmers. The normal mortality rate in poultry farms is around 0.5 percent. This crisis has seen a dramatic increase, pushing the mortality rate up to 4 percent. This is double the usual 2 percent seen in the summer and winter. This unprecedented situation has prompted farmers to appeal to the government for financial assistance and loan rescheduling.

Government Response and the Road Ahead

The Andhra Pradesh government is actively responding to the crisis. Field veterinarians have been alerted and are working closely with farmers to provide guidance and support. The Animal Husbandry Department estimates that Andhra Pradesh has approximately eight crore commercial chickens and two crore domestic chickens. The department’s focus is now on disease control, farmer support and improved biosecurity practices to prevent future outbreaks. The situation remains serious, but government interventions offer hope that the crisis can be contained and support offered to affected farmers.

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