Kerala’s Health Department has issued a fresh set of guidelines to prevent the spread of bird flu (H5N1) to humans after confirmed cases were reported in parts of Kottayam and Alappuzha districts. The advisory comes amid heightened surveillance efforts as authorities move quickly to contain the situation and minimise the risk of human transmission.
The situation was reviewed in detail during a meeting of the State Level Rapid Response Team, which was chaired by Health Minister Veena George. Following the assessment, officials were instructed to significantly enhance monitoring and vigilance at the field level, particularly in areas where bird flu cases have already been identified.
Veena George said that there have been no reported cases of bird flu affecting humans in Kerala so far, but emphasised that strict preventive measures are essential to ensure the virus does not cross the species barrier. She said the Health Department has issued detailed standard operating procedures and technical guidelines, and district authorities have been directed to intensify awareness campaigns and preventive action with the support of trained One Health Community Volunteers.
To strengthen coordination and response, district-level control rooms have been set up in the affected regions. Officials have also been instructed to ensure adequate stocks of essential medicines and personal protective equipment. Enhanced health surveillance is underway to monitor symptoms such as fever, severe body pain, cough and breathing difficulty, with separate monitoring arrangements for individuals presenting these symptoms in affected areas.
The department has reiterated that any unnatural or sudden death of birds must be immediately reported to the Animal Husbandry Department. While cases of bird flu transmission to mammals have been reported in other countries, no such incidents have been recorded in Kerala so far. Nevertheless, authorities have advised that any sudden deaths among mammals should also be promptly reported as a precaution.
People have been strongly advised not to touch or handle dead or infected birds under any circumstances. The department has also stressed that only thoroughly cooked meat and eggs should be consumed. Individuals involved in handling raw meat, poultry waste or bird droppings are considered to be at higher risk and must strictly use protective gear such as masks and gloves. Consumption of raw or partially cooked meat has been clearly discouraged.
The advisory also underlined that avian influenza can affect all species of birds, including chickens, ducks, quails, geese and turkeys. Those living in close proximity to domestic or infected birds have been urged to remain especially alert and follow hygiene and safety protocols diligently.
Symptoms of bird flu in birds include unusual feather loss, thin-shelled or fewer eggs, reduced egg production, sluggish behaviour, discolouration, diarrhoea, nasal bleeding, swollen eyelids, difficulty in breathing and visible bleeding spots on the body. The Health Department has urged people to watch for these signs and report them immediately to authorities.
Frequent handwashing has been strongly recommended for anyone handling suspected birds or poultry-related materials. The department has also advised that anyone who develops a fever or flu-like symptoms should seek medical attention without delay. As part of containment measures, dead birds, eggs and droppings should be safely buried or burned in accordance with official guidelines.
