India: H5N1 in crows in Chennai

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/health/bird-fl...il-nadu-and-how-people-can-stay-safe-10952733


Bird Flu Alert In Chennai: What's Happening In Tamil Nadu And How People Can Stay Safe
Tamil Nadu has been placed on high alert for bird flu (H5N1) after hundreds of dead crows tested positive for the virus. Authorities are intensifying surveillance, biosecurity and public safety measures to prevent spread to poultry or humans.
Written by: Shreya Goswami
Feb 05, 2026 18:00 pm IST
Published On Feb 05, 2026 18:00 pm IST
Last Updated On Feb 05, 2026 18:00 pm IST


Tamil Nadu is facing a renewed avian influenza (bird flu) alert, following the discovery of a large number of dead crows across Chennai and surrounding areas and laboratory confirmation of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus. Reports indicate that an estimated 1,000-1,500 crows have died in neighbourhoods such as Adyar, Velachery, Thiruvanmiyur and along the East Coast Road, prompting the Central government to urge the state to strengthen preventive action. This is especially worrying because quite recently, bird flu cases were detected in crows in Darbhanga, Bihar.​..​

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[Commonground]

​Updated On: 10 Feb 2026 14:26M​
‘Avoid half-boiled eggs’: TN Health minister’s bird flu advisory after Chennai crow deaths

​ Bird Flu in Chennai: Hundreds of dead crows found across Chennai have tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus, prompting urgent containment measures in Tamil Nadu.

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Chennai: In response to confirmed cases of avian influenza (bird flu) in Chennai’s crow population, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian has issued a clear public health advisory, urging citizens to avoid consuming half-boiled eggs and to ensure chicken meat is thoroughly cooked. While officials assert the outbreak is under control and no human transmission has been reported, the minister emphasized the need for strict food safety practices to prevent potential zoonotic spread.

Why should you avoid half-boiled eggs during a Bird Flu alert?

The minister’s specific warning against half-boiled eggs is rooted in virology. Bird flu viruses, such as the H5N1 strain identified in Chennai, are highly sensitive to heat. Health experts explain that these pathogens are completely destroyed when eggs are cooked at a temperature of approximately 70°C until both the yolk and white are firm and solid. Consuming eggs that are half-boiled, runny, or raw poses a potential risk as the virus may not be fully inactivated.

This precaution extends to avoiding meat from birds that are found dead and ensuring all poultry products are meticulously cleaned and cooked well.

Bird flu symptoms

• Respiratory: Cough, runny or blocked nose, sore throat, and phlegm.
• Systemic: High fever ( >38∘Cis greater than 38 raised to the composed with power cap C >38∘𝐶
  or 100∘F100 raised to the composed with power cap F 100∘𝐹 ), chills, extreme fatigue, headache, and muscle/body aches.

When to seek medical care

Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 7 days of contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, though it can take up to 17 days. If you have been around poultry or wild birds and develop these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

What are the broader safety guidelines and current situation in Tamil Nadu?

Beyond dietary precautions, the Public Health Department has outlined comprehensive safety protocols. Minister Subramanian confirmed that the outbreak is currently contained within bird populations, stating, “This outbreak is under control in Tamil Nadu; so far, bird flu has not spread to the people.” Key guidelines for the public include immediately reporting clusters of dead crows or chickens to the Animal Husbandry Department for safe, deep burial instead of handling them directly.

Individuals, especially poultry workers and those handling birds, must monitor for flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, and breathing difficulties and seek immediate medical care if they appear. The state has initiated district-wise awareness campaigns to disseminate this information, aiming to balance necessary vigilance with public reassurance and prevent any panic.
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https://www.news9live.com/state/tam...lu-advisory-after-chennai-crow-deaths-2928841