With a few days to go for Holi, non-vegetarians have been left worried as the Centre has put 9 states on alert over the spread of bird flu, aka the H5N1 virus in Chicken. States like Punjab and Jharkhand are on the list that have been alerted for bird flu. These states reportedly registered bird flu cases in January 2025. Hence, bird flu in Punjab has started to concern not only non-vegetarians but also businessmen and sellers who were expecting the sale to skyrocket on Holi, i.e., on March 14, 2025.
In an advisory issued on March 7, the Central Government’s Dairy and Animal Husbandry Department asked all States and Union Territory (UT) administrations to increase surveillance in high-risk areas like poultry farms and bird markets. Assuring necessary technical support, the Centre urged all states to urgently implement the measures outlined in the National Action Plan for Avian Influenza.
In a letter issued by the Secretary of the Ministry, Alka Upadhyay, it was said that the avian influenza (H5N1) virus had spread in India. People who eat infected chicken can get infected with the virus. A letter issued by the ministry said that since January 2025, cases of avian influenza (H5N1) virus have been reported in 9 states, including government-owned poultry farms. Immediate attention is required to prevent the spread of infection of this virus. All government, commercial, and backyard poultry farms will have to strengthen biosecurity measures.
Bird Flu Symptoms
Symptoms of bird flu can vary, especially due to strains such as H5N1, but are often similar to those of common influenza. Symptoms of bird flu include red eyes, fever, cough, fatigue, muscle pain, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, gastro-intestinal problems, blocked or runny nose, and shortness of breath.
Bird flu or avian influenza primarily affects birds but can infect humans under certain circumstances. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Individuals who handle infected birds or have close contact with poultry farms may contract avian influenza. Eating chicken that has not been cooked properly can also transmit the virus to humans.
Bird Flu Prevention
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching birds or visiting areas where the bird flu virus is present. Avoid contact with animals that have been exposed to avian influenza. Do not ignore symptoms of bird flu and seek medical help. Eat properly cooked chicken and eggs. Get a flu vaccine to reduce the risk of serious illness.