Andhra Pradesh Health Authorities Confirm No Human Bird Flu Infections
In a significant development, Commissioner of Medical and Health for Andhra Pradesh, G Veerapandian, issued an official clarification on Friday, stating that no human cases of Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, have been reported in Chittoor, Annamayya, or any other district across the state. This announcement comes amidst widespread rumours circulating on social media platforms regarding potential infections.
Laboratory Tests Return Negative Results
Veerapandian revealed that a total of 54 samples collected from individuals in the region were tested at the Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS) laboratory in Tirupati. All samples returned negative results for bird flu, effectively dismissing the unverified claims about a youth in Chittoor being infected. The commissioner specifically noted that the sample from the suspected individual also tested negative, providing further reassurance to the public.
Comprehensive Precautionary Measures Implemented
The health department has been actively implementing a series of robust precautionary measures to prevent any potential transmission of the virus from poultry to humans in the affected areas. Oseltamivir tablets have been distributed to poultry farm workers as a preventive step, while N95 masks and sanitisers have been supplied to frontline personnel operating in vulnerable zones to ensure their safety.
Enhanced Surveillance and Preparedness
Medical teams have been assigned to conduct intensified surveillance activities, which include regular field-level monitoring and systematic health data collection from families residing in affected villages to promptly identify any symptomatic cases. As an additional precaution, special isolation beds have been prepared and kept ready in hospitals located at Chittoor and Madanapalle to handle any emergencies.
Under the direct supervision of district collectors, officials from various departments such as revenue, panchayati raj, medical and health, police, and others are collaboratively monitoring the situation on the ground. A central team from New Delhi has also visited the districts to assess conditions and provide essential technical guidance, ensuring a coordinated response.
Virtual Review Meetings and Public Assurance
To further strengthen surveillance and preparedness, virtual review meetings are being regularly conducted with district health authorities. Commissioner Veerapandian reiterated that bird flu primarily affects birds and assured the public that properly cooked chicken and eggs are safe for consumption when standard food safety guidelines are strictly followed. This statement aims to alleviate any concerns regarding food safety and prevent unnecessary panic among consumers.
