The Government of Tamil Nadu has stepped up surveillance and precautionary measures after H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, was confirmed in dead crows in Chennai and several other districts. Officials, however, clarified that there is no evidence so far of the infection spreading to humans or poultry.
Last month, following reports of crow deaths in the Adyar area of Chennai, corporation officials sent samples to the National Institute of Animal Disease Research in Bhopal for testing. Laboratory results confirmed that the birds were infected with the H5N1 virus. The institute subsequently directed the state government to implement precautionary measures.
Acting swiftly, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry intensified monitoring of crow deaths across the state. With neighbouring states such as Kerala and Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district also reporting bird flu cases, check posts have been established along state borders to monitor vehicles transporting poultry.
Experts noted that crows are highly mobile and can travel up to 20 kilometres a day, raising concerns about the potential spread of infection among birds. Recent crow deaths have been reported in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Vellore, Ranipet, Salem, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Madurai, and Dindigul districts. According to Animal Husbandry Department officials, more than 100 crows have been buried so far as a precautionary step.
Bird flu is generally detected through RT-PCR testing. Symptoms in humans, if infected, may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Authorities stressed that there has been no transmission to chickens in the state so far. As a preventive measure, special wards with testing facilities have been set up in government medical college hospitals.
Kavitha, Principal of the Government Kilpauk Medical College, said government hospitals are prepared, and guidelines for diagnosis and treatment have been issued. She explained that testing would be conducted for advanced-stage cases using RT-PCR, similar to COVID-19 protocols. Suspected samples would be sent to the King’s Institute in Guindy, Chennai, and, if required, to a laboratory in Pune to determine the virus strain.
She emphasised that the infection has been confirmed only in crows and there is no need for public panic. However, she advised people to consume properly cooked food at all times.
“Eggs should be boiled before consumption. If there is a crack in the shell, bacteria or viruses can enter. Thorough cooking kills microorganisms,” she said.
Nutritionist Vijayashree also urged caution, advising against consuming raw or half-boiled eggs. She stated that boiling eggs at 100 degrees Celsius for at least 10 minutes effectively destroys harmful microbes.
“Half-boiled eggs can be risky, particularly for those with low immunity. Chicken and mutton should also be cooked thoroughly—chicken for 20 to 30 minutes and mutton for 40 to 60 minutes,” she added.
Authorities reiterated that while H5N1 has been detected in dead crows, there is currently no evidence of infection among humans or poultry in Tamil Nadu. The public has been advised to follow official guidelines, maintain hygiene, and ensure food is well-cooked to minimise risks.
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