Nagpur: Samples of poultry from the Bada Tajbagh area in Nagpur have tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) virus, according to reports from the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, and the Disease Investigation Department, Pune.

In response, District Collector Dr. Vipin Itankar has declared the one-kilometer radius around Motha Tajbagh as an “infected zone” on Wednesday, February 5. Additionally, a nine-kilometer buffer zone has been designated as a “surveillance area” to monitor the situation.

Authorities have instructed the Rapid Response Team to scientifically dispose of all poultry, eggs, and poultry feed within the infected zone. Sanitization and disinfection measures have also been permitted in the affected area.

Further, the district administration has imposed a 21-day ban on the sale, purchase, transportation, and exhibition of poultry, eggs, and related products in the infected zone. Organizing poultry markets, fairs, and exhibitions has also been prohibited.

These preventive steps are aimed at containing the spread of the virus and ensuring public safety. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further outbreak.