Alappuzha , 23 Dec (H.S.):Avian influenza has been officially confirmed in Alappuzha district, with the deaths of more than 20,000 ducks across seven panchayats attributed to the disease. The confirmation was communicated to the Kerala government by the Central Department of Animal Husbandry.

The outbreak has affected several regions in Kuttanad, including Nedumudi, Cheruthana, Karuvatta, Karthikappally, Ambalappuzha South, Punnapra South, and Thakazhi. Ducks in these areas reportedly died after exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with avian influenza.

Following the sudden spike in mortality, samples were first tested at a laboratory in Thiruvalla, where the results returned positive. The samples were subsequently sent to Bhopal for confirmatory testing. Further analysis at the High Security Animal Disease Laboratory in Bhopal also confirmed the presence of avian influenza.

Based on these findings, the Central Department of Animal Husbandry formally informed the State government of the outbreak. Authorities are expected to implement containment and preventive measures in the affected regions to prevent further spread of the disease and safeguard poultry farming in the district.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman