Following the widespread deaths of chickens in Karvetinagaram mandal, the Chittoor district administration has formed a rapid response team to deal with any eventuality due to the ongoing bird flu outbreak in neighboring Tamil Nadu. The Chittoor district administration has warned local poultry farmers to remain vigilant.
Collector Sumit Kumar, who held a video conference with officials on Sunday following the death of a large number of chickens at RK Peta (RKNB Peta) and nearby areas in Karvetinagaram mandal, asked the animal husbandry department to form a rapid response team, conduct a ground visit and conduct a preliminary investigation. Mr. Sumit Kumar wanted the officials to organize a cleanliness drive in the affected areas in coordination with the District Planner, District Medical Officer and Health Officer and Joint Director (Veterinary).
Mr. Sumit Kumar said the samples of the chickens have been sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal and the results are awaited. He asked the public not to panic and remain alert until the results are out.
He ordered poultry farm owners to enforce strict biosecurity measures and prevent outsiders from entering their farms. He said there was no risk from eating chicken or eggs, provided they were cooked above 70 degrees Celsius.
He also urged poultry farmers to immediately inform animal husbandry department officials if they notice mass deaths of chickens in their farms. The collector said bird flu is spread between birds and not humans.
In case of increased poultry deaths, farmers have been advised to contact animal husbandry officials on 70131 19447 or the district dispatch on 08572 242730. For any information regarding chicken deaths, farmers can also contact Dr. Hema Kumara on 9959763573 or Dr.398831 on 940831.
Mr. Sumit Kumar assured that he will take all measures to protect the poultry sector as well as public health.
Published – 08 Feb 2026 19:52 IST
