Lucknow, 13 Aug
(HS): Taking seriously the potential threat of H5 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu),
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday directed the concerned departments
to take prompt and coordinated action. He said that the safety of protected
animals and birds is the top priority of the state government and negligence at
any level will not be acceptable. The Chief Minister clarified that security
measures should be further strengthened in all zoological parks, bird
sanctuaries, national parks, wetland areas and cow shelters in the state. He
directed to promptly implement all necessary steps in accordance with the
guidelines of the Central and State Government. The Chief Minister said that
the zoological garden premises should be sanitized regularly and the process of
blow toching should also be adopted if required. Health check-up of all wild
animals and birds should be mandatory and food should be provided only after
thorough examination of their diet. The Chief Minister also emphasized that the
duty of the employees appointed in the enclosures should be decided keeping in
view the level of risk, so that the safety standards can be fully followed.
The Chief Minister
directed that all employees should be given detailed information about the
symptoms of Avian Influenza, the mode of infection and the measures to prevent
it. Along with this, all necessary safety equipment including PPE kits should
be made available to them, so that they can discharge their responsibilities
safely. Paying special attention to the poultry sector, the Chief Minister said
that all poultry farms in the state should be strictly monitored as per the
standards. There should be constant control on the movement of poultry
products. He also directed the Health Department to thoroughly study the
possible effects of H5 Avian Influenza on human health and submit a report, so
that no chain of infection can reach human society.
The Chief Minister
directed to maintain continuous dialogue with Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi,
National Disease Control Center, Ministry of Health, Fisheries and Dairy
Department and other national institutions including Indian Veterinary Research
Institute, Izatnagar (Bareilly). He said that timely implementation of the
suggestions received from these institutions should be ensured. The Chief
Minister emphasized that only timely, coordinated and strict action will pave
the way for effective control over this possible infection. All the concerned
departments will have to work with mutual cooperation and quick information
exchange, so that the safety of both the citizens and wild animals of the state
can be ensured.
Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi