India Reports 41 Bird Flu Cases 2025, Government Takes Steps to Control Spread

New Delhi: India has seen 41 outbreaks of bird flu so far in 2025, mainly across 10 states, according to the Union government. This shows that the avian flu activity is continuing in the country, though at a slightly lower level compared to some previous years.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, confirmed that bird flu infections have been found not only in birds but also in some other animals such as tigers, lions, leopards, and domestic cats. This suggests that the virus can affect a wider range of animals than expected, raising concerns about the potential risk of the disease spreading to humans.

Although bird flu cases are still being reported, 2025 has had fewer outbreaks caused by the H9N1 virus compared to recent years. Until July 24, 41 outbreaks were recorded, compared to 49 outbreaks during the same period in 2024. The highest number of outbreaks in the last five years occurred in 2021, with 118 cases reported, while the lowest was in 2023 with just 15 outbreaks.

The states affected by bird flu outbreaks in domestic poultry include Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.

To tackle this ongoing threat, the government has put in place several measures focused on prevention, monitoring, and quick response. One key step has been the National Action Plan for Prevention, Control, and Containment of Avian Influenza, revised in 2021. This plan offers detailed guidance on how to prepare for outbreaks, identify affected areas, carry out culling of infected birds, and implement biosecurity measures to stop the spread of the disease.

Ahead of the winter season, when migratory birds arrive and can carry the virus, advisories have been sent to all states and union territories to strengthen their readiness. This includes boosting surveillance in high-risk areas and coordinating efforts with wildlife and health authorities.

Additionally, a Poultry Disease Action Plan was introduced in 2024 to help create a strong and healthy poultry sector that can better withstand disease outbreaks.

To support affected poultry farmers, the government provides financial assistance to compensate them for the birds that have to be culled. Funding is also available to improve laboratory facilities, support research and innovation, and provide training and awareness programs on good animal care, biosecurity, and timely reporting of unusual deaths in birds.

A National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been formed, bringing together experts from various departments such as Animal Husbandry, Disease Control, Medical Research, and Agriculture. This team coordinates investigations and supports field operations to control and contain outbreaks.

Another important development is the approval of a vaccine for Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H9N2), developed using an indigenous seed strain. This vaccine adds an important tool to help prevent the spread of bird flu in India.

The government continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with states to ensure quick action to protect both animals and people from the risks of avian influenza.