For the first time in India, the H5N1 bird flu virus has been detected in domestic cats in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh. The discovery has put the region on high alert, with strict containment measures, including a 21-day ban on the sale of meat, chicken, and eggs.

Health officials confirmed that two domestic cats tested positive for the virus after 99 fell sick in January. The infection is suspected to have spread from contaminated poultry. While H5N1 primarily affects birds, it has the potential to jump species, raising concerns about public health.

“The virus might have been transmitted from chicken to these cats fed by their caretakers,” a senior government official stated.

Authorities have culled 500 poultry birds and destroyed 40,000 eggs to curb further spread. Dr. HGS Pakshwar, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, Chhindwara, said: “To investigate, samples from several cats were sent to Pune’s National Institute of Virology on January 15 and 22. By February 10, the results confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus in two samples. Taking swift action, the administration targeted the source of the infection.”

Raw meat samples from affected shops also tested positive for bird flu, leading to their immediate closure. Dr Pakshwar added: “Bird flu traces found at these shops prompted the destruction of related meat and eggs, accompanied by a 30-day closure of the establishments.”

Samples from 65 people in contact with the infected cats have tested negative, but health officials remain cautious. “All results came back negative. Nevertheless, health officials remain vigilant, with ongoing surveillance in a 10 km radius,” Dr. Pakshwar reassured.

With stringent containment measures, normalcy is expected to return by March 4. This unprecedented case highlights the risk of cross-species transmission and the urgent need for strict monitoring of animal-borne diseases.

(This story was taken from a syndicated feed and was only edited for style by Gujarat Samachar Digital team)

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