Bird Flu Confirmed in Damak Municipality; Movement of Poultry Products Banned

Jhapa. Following the confirmation of Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) infection in Damak Municipality, the transport of chicken meat, eggs, and related materials has been banned.

The infection was confirmed through laboratory testing after chickens started falling ill and dying at a layer poultry farm operating in Damak Municipality-10. The municipality stated that to mitigate the high risk of the infection spreading, the movement of poultry, eggs, chicks, feed, and equipment from the affected area has been completely stopped.

Unnecessary entry into the farm area has also been prohibited, and the use of disinfectant at entry and exit points has been mandated.

Mayor Ramkumar Thapa mentioned that all necessary steps have been taken to control the infection and urged the general public to exercise high vigilance. According to Veterinary Officer Bipu Adhikari in Damak, preparations are underway to cull the chickens at the concerned farm following the confirmation of the infection.

It was reported that a technical team, including experts, conducted an on-site inspection on Monday and will destroy the infected and suspected chickens according to health standards. Rajendra Bhandari, Ward Chairman of Damak-10, informed that there are about 25 poultry farms, large and small, in Damak Municipality-10.

The municipality has urged the public to immediately report any instances of unusually sick or suddenly dying chickens. It also requested that people avoid touching dead or sick chickens, pay attention to personal hygiene, and exercise caution when using poultry-related products.

The municipality stated that since Bird Flu is a disease that can also transmit to humans, everyone's cooperation is essential for its control and prevention. Mayor Thapa informed that this farm, located near the Ward Office in Damak-10, has about 13,000 chickens, and further action will be taken based on the advice of a team arriving from Biratnagar after inspecting the farm.