New Delhi: With the rising cases of poultry deaths being reported in few states of India such as Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Himanchal Pradesh whereas Jammu and Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh have also witnessed unusual poultry deaths, the Centre has warned about the outbreak of bird flu or Avian influenza. A virus named H5N1 has been associated with this influenza.
The death of poultry birds has raised concern among people about the safety regarding the consumption of chicken and eggs. A drop in price of poultry has also been reported in some regions.
“Avian influenza has been confirmed by the National Institute of Security Animal Diseases,” Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan wrote to the respective states.
During this time it has become very important for the people of the country to know what WHO says regarding the present situation of bird flu.
H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes “highly infectious, severe respiratory disease in birds called avian influenza”, according to World Health Organisation (WHO).
The WHO says that it is safe to consume chicken if it is cooked properly at normal heat temperature. The food reaches 70 degrees Celsius while cooking, hence it can kill the virus.
Ms Kalinga