Following an outbreak of Avian Influenza (H5N1), or Bird Flu, in the neighbouring States of Andhra Pradesh (Nellore), Maharashtra (Nagpur), Kerala (Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta), and Jharkhand (Ranchi), the Telangana Health department on Friday has issued an advisory to take precautions. As of now, the flu has not been detected in Telangana, according to a Health department official. Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected or suspected birds or animals, especially their droppings, saliva, and other secretions. Cooking poultry to 70° Celsius kills the bird flu virus, making the food safe. The advisory also advises avoiding shaking hands, sharing food, water, and clothes with others when sick or when others are sick.

Source: The Hindu June 08, 2024 23:02 UTC