NEW DELHI,2 Feb 2026 : Bird flu (avian influenza) has been confirmed in Darbhanga, Bihar, after thousands of crows died, triggering high alert.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has sparked concern in Darbhanga district of Bihar after official confirmation of infection in dead crows and intensified surveillance by authorities.
A sudden spike in crow deaths in the Bhigo area led local officials to send bird samples to a laboratory in Bhopal, with results confirming the presence of the highly pathogenic bird flu virus. In response, municipal and veterinary teams have begun safe disposal of carcasses and serological testing of nearby poultry farms.
Bird flu is caused by influenza A viruses, especially highly pathogenic strains like H5N1, which naturally circulate among wild aquatic birds. While these viruses primarily infect birds, they can occasionally spill over to mammals, including humans, through direct and prolonged exposure.
Though human infections are rare, they can be severe and life-threatening. Understanding how bird flu spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and the steps to prevent infection is essential for both public health and individual safety.
Bird flu spreads most commonly through:
*Direct contact with infected birds or their secretions
*Contaminated environments, such as cages, soil or water
*Handling of poultry or eggs without proper hygiene
Human infections typically arise when enough virus enters the body through the eyes, nose or mouth, or by inhalation of viral particles in high-risk settings.
It’s important to note that seasonal influenza vaccines do not protect against bird flu, though they help prevent common human flu and may reduce the risk of dual infection.
Symptoms can vary widely from mild to severe and may appear between 2 to 8 days after exposure. Common signs include:
Fever
Cough or sore throat
Shortness of breath
Muscle aches
Fatigue and headache
Conjunctivitis (eye irritation)
In severe cases, respiratory distress, pneumonia and multi-organ failure have been reported.
Unlike seasonal flu, bird flu infections can progress rapidly and require urgent medical attention, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly or immunocompromised.
Picture credit social media
