NEW DELHI: Union Environment and Forests Ministry on Tuesday issued guidelines for the people handling wild birds, both migratory and resident, in and around the protected areas in view of the possible spread of H5N1 virus into India.

All Chief Wildlife Wardens have been directed to report any death of birds to the Ministry and asked to extend full assistance to district veterinary authority in the collection of serum and blood samples of dead birds, particularly from the protected areas.

"Report death of birds"

Bird watchers, too, have been asked to report any sighting of a dead bird to the nearest forest or animal husbandry office.

Sample collectors should ensure that wild birds are not harmed during trapping and collection of serum samples. Preference should be given to the leg vein instead of the wing vein as collection from wing vein often results in haemorrhage affecting the normal flight and making birds vulnerable to predators.

Collection of samples, packing and transportation is to be done in collaboration with trained animal husbandry and veterinary staff.

The guidelines point out that the affected birds show symptoms such as tremors, diarrhoea, head tilt, staggering and paralysis. The virus generally affects poultry but lately there have been instances of virus transmission from poultry to human beings and vice-versa.

The Ministry has instructed those handling wild and migratory birds to wear rubber gloves, eyewear and protective clothing that can be disinfected or disposed of. Similarly, work areas and equipment will have to be disinfected regularly and extra precautions taken not to eat, drink or smoke while handling animals.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail