The Assam government has made it clear that the avian influenza has spread to new areas of the state.

Sources in the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department said that the deadly bird flu virus was confirmed in about 15 more villages. The health authorities have been asked to cull nearly 70,000 birds in these areas.

Speaking on this, a veterinary department official said, “So far about 150 villages in eight Assam districts were hit by bird flu and Rapid Response Teams have already slaughtered about 510,000 chickens and ducks since November 27.”

The latest report added that culling was on in the new areas including Manahkuchi of Hajo, Chayani Barduar block in Kamrup (Rural), Tihu-Barama of Baksa, Chachaligaon Burachowk in Nagaon, Rangamati and Aurpakmoniari Tiniali in Kamrup (Metro).

"We have so far identified 19 epicentres affected by bird flu in Assam. Culling operations in newly affected areas have already begun, while in some places the drive is almost complete," added the official.  

The official said the source of the deadly virus was difficult to be ascertained as it was air borne. The Assam government has already banned sale and movement of poultry products from bird flu affected areas.

It may be here recalled that the deadly bird flu was first detected in Kamrup (Rural) district on the 27th of last month. Since than more than 500,000 poultry have been culled down by the state authorities in the state.

Furthermore, the Union government has also established the outbreak of the disease among the poultry of Doloigaon Uzanpara village under Dhaligaon Development Block of Bongaigaon District.