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Migratory Birds Dropped Dead

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  • Migratory Birds Dropped Dead

    These birds were found in March. Test results were supposed to be available
    by April.


  • #2
    Re: Migratory Birds Dropped Dead

    (from above)

    By IE
    Sunday April 15, 04:56 AM
    Carcasses sent to High Security Animal Disease Lab in Bhopal, report on Northern Shovellers next month

    It will be another month before the Bombay Veterinary College officially confirms if bird flu virus did exist in the migratory birds that dropped dead from the skies in Santa Cruz in March this year. But worries remain.


    Confirming that a few of the carcasses were sent to the High Security Animal Disease Laboratory in Bhopal for thorough tests a month ago, R S Nehete, professor of the pathology department, said, "The lab is predominantly checking for bird flu virus. Initial reports are showing negative results, however, now they are cultivating the viruses to find out if bird flu strain exists in them."

    Nehete said the tests will take at least till April since the Bhopal laboratory has a very strict regimen in place. "Presently, they are testing the carcasses in batches. The virology department needs at least two months (????) for the viruses to grow fully."

    On March 4, several migratory birds later identified as Northern Shovellers, had fallen dead from the sky, much to the surprise of animal welfare groups and veterinarians whose immediate concerns were directed at the city's avian health.

    The birds were immediately sent to the Parel animal hospital for examination. While hospital reports said the birds suffered skull and body fractures, "congestion of lungs" was also noticed in some of them.

    Asked about this, Nehete said, "We had identified a pulmonary condition, but it could have been due to excessive heat or the first stage of pneumonia." However, she maintained there is no need for panic yet.
    But Anuradha Sawhney, chief functionary of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) had earlier pointed out that reports of bird flu affecting certain birds in Pakistan zoos was doing the rounds, so there may be a little cause for concern.

    .
    "The next major advancement in the health of American people will be determined by what the individual is willing to do for himself"-- John Knowles, Former President of the Rockefeller Foundation

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