Infected crows are being identified as the primary reason behind the widespread transmission of bird flu across the Kathmandu Valley.
Bird flu has seen a significant spread across the Kathmandu Valley, with crows being the main culprit. The disease started to spread throughout the valley after it was detected in crows here.
Dr. Umesh Dahal, Director General of the Department of Livestock Services, confirmed that the presence of bird flu in crows led to its widespread transmission across the valley. He explained that while bird flu in chickens can be contained, controlling the infection in crows is far more challenging. “Crows has been instrumental in spreading the infection in many places, including the Central Zoo,” he noted.
Dr. Dahal further elaborated that infected crows fly from one location to another, carrying the disease with them. He highlighted that the bird flu infection can remain active in crows for up to 21 days, significantly increasing their potential to spread the disease. “When a crow die, it is often unknown where it fell, and the dead crow continues to spread bird flu. Even crow droppings are a major carrier of the disease,” he added.
Currently, all three districts within the Kathmandu Valley have reported cases of bird flu. Nationally, the infection has been identified in 100 locations across 11 districts, according to Dr. Dahal.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Dahal stated that bird flu has been brought under control in most parts of the valley, with the exceptions of Kirtipur and Kageshwori Manahara. Bird flu is a highly contagious disease among birds, known for its high mortality rate. Following the detection of bird flu in crows within the valley, authorities have urged the public to take special precautions.
To combat the spread, the Department of Livestock Services has set up a bird flu control room, led by its Deputy Director General. This initiative involves conducting control campaigns in affected areas through close coordination with federal, provincial, and local government bodies.
This article was originally published on https://bajarkochirfar.com. Translated with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
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