Bird flu

The University of Nottingham is participating in a UK-wide trial of a new H5N1 Bird flu vaccine. This trial aims to assess the vaccine's safety and its ability to prepare the body to fight the virus, ensuring readiness should it begin spreading between people.

A hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship has sparked global concern, with over 10 cases reported. While the World Health Organization acknowledges its seriousness, top epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove clarifies it's not a COVID-2.0 scenario. The focus remains on rigorous quarantine and monitoring to contain the spread.

A Hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship is set to dock in Rotterdam for disinfection. Passengers and crew faced quarantine after the Andes virus strain was detected. Authorities are managing the situation, with WHO recommending a 42-day isolation period for those exposed to the serious, rodent-borne illness.

US President Trump's China visit yielded trade and investment pacts, including Boeing aircraft and agricultural deals. Both nations agreed on Iran's nuclear non-proliferation and Strait of Hormuz access. Notably, Taiwan, a key discussion point, was omitted from the White House fact sheet, despite Trump hinting at reconsidering arms sales.

Karnataka's Tumakuru district is on high alert after over 44 peacocks died, confirming H5N1 avian influenza. While human infections are rare, the virus can cross over from birds, causing severe respiratory illness. Authorities have established containment zones and are monitoring bird populations closely. Residents are urged to avoid sick birds and practice good hygiene.

Puffin Cams are back on the Farne Islands, offering a live view of seabirds and aiding conservation efforts. Despite concerns about Bird flu and recent storms impacting food availability, rangers are closely monitoring the bird population. The cameras provide valuable insights for both the public and those caring for the islands' wildlife.

Laboratory reports have confirmed that H5N1 avian influenza caused the deaths of 44 peacocks in Tumakuru between April 16 and April 24. Authorities have sounded a high alert in 33 villages within a 10-km radius and are implementing disinfectant spraying and enhanced surveillance to prevent further spread.

Initial reports indicated poisoning, but in view of Bird flu cases in neighbouring Nepal, forest officials have not ruled out avian influenza (H5N1).

A Bird flu outbreak has been confirmed at Nagpur's Central Hatchery following the deaths of nearly 1,000 birds. Authorities are implementing urgent containment measures and have warned of disciplinary action for any negligence. Officials are being directed to comply with orders to prevent further spread of the infection.

Bird flu has been confirmed in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, following the deaths of approximately 5,500 chickens at a government poultry farm. Authorities have initiated containment measures, including shutting down the farm, destroying infected birds and eggs, and establishing a five-kilometre sensitive zone. Health and animal husbandry departments are coordinating to prevent further spread.

In Patna's Chitragupta Nagar, tensions flared into violence when a dispute arose over suspected Bird flu-infected chickens. Shopkeeper Mohammad Arman confronted a poultry dealer about the delivery of sickly birds, leading to a brutal assault and theft of Rs5,700. Following the incident, Arman received medical care, and law enforcement has filed a First Information Report (FIR) to investigate the matter.

Maharashtra on Sunday joined seven other states in reporting an outbreak of avian influenza or Bird flu.

Rate of an egg went down by Rs 1.50 in three days as the news of Bird flu broke in the region.

Cases of avian influenza or Bird flu in the national capital has decreased upto 50 per cent, the animal husbandry department of Delhi said on Thursday.

Across India, crows have turned out to be the biggest casualty of Bird flu virus ever since the infection's presence was detected in Rajasthan, MP, Maharashtra, Delhi and other states at the onset of this year. In Gujarat too, nearly 70% of the 500-odd birds reported dead or suspected to have died due to Bird flu were crows.

After a few samples of crows from Kale Hanumanji Forest Nakka here tested positive for H5N8 Avian influenza virus, the health department has issued directions to remain alert and keep monitoring patients coming to hospitals for any unusual symptoms similar to Bird flu.

Bird flu scare among residents has led to a decline in the demand for eggs and chicken in the city. The price of chicken has dropped from Rs 180-200/kg to Rs 150-160/kg within a week. No significant drop has been witnessed in the price of eggs as yet.