Lalitpur: Nepal's battle against the H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) continues as the infection spreads to more parts of the country. According to the Department of Animal Services, bird flu has now been confirmed at 82 locations across 11 districts, prompting authorities to intensify surveillance and disease control efforts in affected areas.

The outbreak was first detected in Morang on Chaitra 4, 2082 BS. Since then, the virus has spread to Jhapa, Sunsari, Mahottari, Bara, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and Kavrepalanchok.

Large-Scale Culling to Contain the Disease
To prevent further transmission, the Department has carried out extensive culling operations. Director General Dr. Umesh Dahal said that 569,858 birds have been destroyed as part of the containment campaign.

In addition, authorities have destroyed 989,313 eggs and 1,954.85 quintals of poultry feed to eliminate potential sources of infection and reduce the risk of further spread.

Kathmandu Valley Remains Under High Alert
The Department has established a dedicated Bird Flu Disease Control Cell under the leadership of the Deputy Director General and deployed technical teams in coordination with federal, provincial, and local governments.

While the outbreak has largely been brought under control in Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Bara, Mahottari, Chitwan, and Nawalparasi, officials say active infections are still being reported in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, and Kavrepalanchok. As a result, surveillance and response measures have been significantly strengthened in these districts.

Gene Sequencing Underway
Authorities have also begun genetic sequencing of the H5N1 virus in collaboration with the National Public Health Laboratory.

The study aims to determine whether the virus has undergone any genetic mutations that could affect its transmission or behavior, helping experts better understand the current outbreak and prepare appropriate response measures.

Farmers Urged to Follow Strict Biosecurity Measures
The Department has appealed to poultry farmers to strictly comply with biosecurity standards to prevent further outbreaks. Farmers have been advised not to reuse old egg crates, to ensure all vehicles and equipment entering farms are thoroughly disinfected, and to prevent contact between domestic poultry and wild birds.

Authorities have also made it mandatory to obtain veterinary certification before transporting poultry or poultry products. Farmers are urged to maintain regular vaccination schedules and immediately report any unusual illness or sudden deaths among birds to the nearest animal service office.

Officials emphasize that early reporting, strict biosecurity, and coordinated action remain the most effective measures to control the spread of bird flu and protect Nepal's poultry industry.