Bird Flu Outbreak: Odisha Health Director Dr Bijay Mohapatra Urges People Not To Panic

Bhubaneswar, Aug 27: Dr Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Director of Health Services (DHS), Govt of Odisha, has urged people not to panic over 'Bird Flu' cases.

"Everyone is requested not to panic over bird flu cases," said Dr Mohapatra, Tuesday.

The statement came after a bird flu outbreak was confirmed in Pipili town of Puri district (Detail report). The H5N1 avian influenza has been detected in several poultry farms, prompting authorities to take initiate containment measures.

"Farm owners will be compensated if they kill and bury the infected chickens," stated Dr Mohapatra.

According to Dr Mohapatra, bird flu cases have been reported from two different places in Satyabadi, Puri. "The State Rapid Response Team and District Rapid Response Team are trying to contain the outbreak and ensure public safety," he added.

He also said that pamphlets are being distributed in an attempt to aware the people. "We are identifying the people who are coming in contact with infected chickens and giving them antidotes," he asserted.

Dr Mohapatra has also argued people not to eat chicken from places where infected cases are reported. "We have also directed the farm owners and workers not to sell infected chickens. In addition, we have asked them to kill and bury those infected birds, for which they will be compensated," he informed.