To control the spread of the deadly H5N1 strain of virus, poultry birds are being culled in the two bird flu hit areas in Phuentsholing- Rinchending and Pasakha– and also in places within the 3 kilometres radius.

Hundred and eighty three poultry birds have been culled in the bird flu hit Pasakha area yesterday. The culling operation was carried out in Chengmari village. Twenty more chickens were culled this morning in the BCCL colony.

On Tuesday, 51 chickens in Pasakha town and BCCL colony were culled. Officials are expecting to cull another 200-300 chicken.

About 50 veterinary, livestock, health, BAFRA officials and RBP personnel are involved in the task. The Department of Livestock is heading the operation.

The Director General said every possible measure is being taken to prevent the spread of bird flu and there is no need for the public to panic.

“Whatever we have done so far has kept us free of this disease. We are lucky because we got it late and because we got it late we are very much prepared. We are very well prepared to combat the situation and we will be able to contain it,” said the Director General of the Livestock Department, Tenzin Dhendup, adding that they would not let it come to human beings.

The dead and slaughtered chicken are being properly disposed off underground. The chicken coops are being dismantled and burnt down. Over the past two days 20 coops have been dismantled and disinfected.

“We are carrying on surveillance and strict vigilance of the 10 Kilometre radius from the epicentre,” said the Director General.

Officials are briefing farmers and urging them to be vigilant for signs of virus. Movement of fowls has been banned.

Officials are also urging the people to cooperate with them in their battle against the bird flu. Source: BBS