Karnataka govt launches war-footing response as Health Minister assures no human infection, over 25,000 people under monitoring in containment and surveillance zones
Bengaluru: Karnataka has stepped up emergency measures after H5N1 bird flu was confirmed in poultry at Matkur village in Hesaraghatta, prompting the government to declare a 1-year prohibited zone and initiate large-scale containment operations.
State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao assured that the situation is fully under control and urged the public not to panic, even as authorities intensified surveillance and biosecurity protocols.
H5N1 Confirmed, Immediate Containment Zones Declared
According to officials, the infection was confirmed on April 14 based on testing by NIHSAD. Following this, rapid response teams conducted on-ground inspections.
Matkur village has been declared an infected zone within a 3 km radius, while a 10 km radius has been marked as a surveillance zone, now designated as a restricted area for one year to prevent further spread.
Mass Culling and Emergency Action Taken
In a swift containment move on April 15, authorities carried out scientific disposal of 7,444 chickens, over 14,000 eggs, and 2,250 kg of poultry feed under the supervision of the Animal Husbandry Department.
The 10 personnel involved in the operation have been quarantined and administered Oseltamivir as a precautionary measure. They are currently under strict medical observation.
25,000+ People Under Surveillance
Health authorities have placed 3,422 people across 2 villages in the containment zone under close monitoring, along with 22,395 people in 17 villages within the surveillance zone.
ASHA workers have been deployed to conduct door-to-door fever screenings for the next 10 days, ensuring early detection of any potential symptoms.
Primary Health Centres in Hesaraghatta and Sonnenahalli have been directed to maintain adequate stock of PPE kits, masks, and essential medicines.
No Human Infection, Govt Urges Caution Not Panic
Reassuring the public, Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated that no human cases of bird flu have been reported so far.
“The H5N1 virus has been detected in birds, not in humans. Surveillance is being carried out as a precaution,” he said.
He added that testing will be initiated immediately if any symptoms are detected, and the situation is being closely monitored.
Public Advisory Issued
Authorities have issued precautionary guidelines, advising citizens to:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
- Ensure proper cooking of chicken and eggs before consumption
- Report any suspicious symptoms immediately to health or veterinary officials
The government emphasised that while there is no immediate cause for alarm, vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent escalation.
The situation continues to be monitored closely, with authorities maintaining a high alert across Bengaluru and surrounding regions.
