Representational image. File | Photo Credit: M. Vedhan
Strains of avian influenza (H5N1) have been confirmed in crow samples lifted from Adyar in Chennai, according to the Union government.
In a communication dated January 22, 2026, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying informed the Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu that the ICAR–National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, had confirmed the H5N1 avian influenza virus in samples collected from a dead crow on January 21, 2026.
The samples were submitted by the Assistant Director, Animal Disease Intelligence Unit, Kancheepuram. It has requested implementation of the ‘One-Health’ approach, involving multiple sectors and departments to effectively control the spread.
The communication said local municipalities should strengthen biosecurity and undertake thorough disinfection in areas where bird mortality has been reported.
On handling bird deaths
Dead birds must be disposed of through deep burial, and entire carcasses are to be sent to laboratories for testing with appropriate biosecurity measures. Any unusual mortality in poultry or other avian species must be reported immediately. Enhanced surveillance of poultry and ducks in affected areas was recommended, including monitoring in wet bird markets, night shelters of duck farms, hatcheries, etc.
Updated reports from affected locations were also sought in the communication.
Steps by Chennai Corporation
Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) City Health Officer M. Jagadeesan said medical camps have been held since last month for people, especially in Indira Nagar of Adyar where many birds were reported dead. Domestic Breeding Checkers (DBC) are conducting door-to-door medical check-ups in areas where the birds were found dead.
“This seems to be a species-specific disease affecting only crows, as far as GCC has observed. The civic body is following up on the issue. The number of birds dying has also decreased compared to January,” he added.
Published – February 05, 2026 05:30 am IST
