Imphal, July 24: Even as the results of the samples sent to the High Security Animal Diseases Laboratory at Bhopal and the National Institute of Virology at Pune are being awaited to ascertain whether the virus that causes bird flu has landed in Manipur or not, the State Level Committee headed by the Chief Secretary discussed the steps being taken up by the Government to tackle any eventualities today.

The samples were sent after 132 fowls being reared at a farm within the Imphal Municipality area expired suddenly one after the other.

Speaking to The Sangai Express today, Doctor Th Dorendro of the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department said that the results from Bhopal and Pune may arrive tomorrow.

The samples were sent to Bhopal and Pune in three batches and all the dead fowls have been buried.

To a question, Dorendro said that the samples were sent to both Pune and Bhopal to cross check the results.

If the result is positive, then it has to be announced to the public, he explained.

The doctor further informed that if the meat is cooked at 70 degree Celsius the virus cannot survive.

He also advised the people to wash their hands properly with soap after feeding their fowls and not to let children play near the livestock.

Use of disinfectant after coming into contact with the affected bird also helps in warding off the virus.

Meanwhile a meeting of the State Level Committee headed by the Chief Secretary was held at his office chamber today.

Among others, Joint Commissioner in the Union Agriculture Ministry, AB Negi who has been stationed at Imphal for the last couple of days to supervise the measures taken up, was present at the meeting.

The other officials present at the meeting included the Principal Secretary (Revenue), Health Secretary, Finance Commissioner, Chief Conservator of Forest, Veterinary Secretary, Health Director, Veterinary Director and the DCs of Imphal East and West.

The meeting discussed at length all the possible measures that may be taken up, if the results from Bhopal and Pune turn out to be positive, said a source.

During the meeting it was decided to keep at ready, sprayers that may be used to spray medicines to kill the virus in both Imphal East and West.

The two DCs have also been asked to ensure that JCBs and other equipments that may be needed to dig up the earth and bury the dead fowls are kept ready.

In case the result which is expected by tomorrow turns out to be positive then all fowls, ducks and other domesticated birds kept within a radius of 5 kms where the death of the fowls was reported, will be culled, said the source.

SAFETY TIPS
* The virus dies if the meat is cooked above 70 degree celsius.

Do not eat under cooked chicken or duck meat.
* In case one comes into contact with fowls or ducks, then one must wash one's hand carefully with soap.
* Use of disinfectant is recommended as its use can ward off the virus.
* Do not let children play near the place where chickens and ducks are kept.