H5N1 Avian Flu Detected in Hesaraghatta Poultry Centre Near Bengaluru

An outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed at a poultry rearing training centre in Mathkuru village near Hesaraghatta, Bengaluru, prompting immediate containment measures by Karnataka health and animal husbandry authorities. As of April 18, 2026, no human cases have been reported, and officials urge the public to remain cautious but not panic.

Outbreak Confirmation and Response Timeline

The H5N1 virus was detected following a report from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, dated April 14, 2026. Rapid response teams from the state, district, and primary health centre levels visited the site on April 16 to initiate containment protocols.

Containment Measures Implemented

Authorities have declared the area within a 3-kilometre radius of the poultry training centre in Mathkuru village as an infected zone, although a 10-kilometre radius has been notified as a surveillance zone. As part of the response:

• 7,444 birds were culled
• 14,788 eggs and 2,250 kg of poultry feed were scientifically disposed of
• The burial site has been secured and declared a prohibited area for one year

These actions were carried out on April 15 under the supervision of the Animal Husbandry Department.

Public Health Precautions

Ten cullers involved in the operation have been quarantined and are under medical supervision with oseltamivir prophylaxis. Health workers and ASHAs are conducting daily house-to-house fever surveillance in the affected zones. Two villages with a population of 3,422 fall within the 0–3 km zone, while 17 villages with a population of 22,395 are in the 3–10 km surveillance zone.

The health department has alerted private hospitals to report Influenza-Like Illness and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection cases via the Integrated Health Information Platform portal. Adequate stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE), triple-layer masks, oseltamivir, viral transport medium, and throat swabs are confirmed to be available.

Official Statements

Karnataka Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dinesh Gundu Rao has stated there is no need for panic, emphasizing that no human cases have been detected. He urged the public to follow proper food safety practices and remain vigilant.

Understanding H5N1 Avian Influenza

H5N1 is a subtype of influenza A virus that primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect humans. While human-to-human transmission remains rare, direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments poses a risk. Proper cooking of poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) effectively kills the virus.

Key Takeaways

• H5N1 avian flu confirmed at a poultry training centre in Mathkuru village, Hesaraghatta, near Bengaluru
• No human cases reported as of April 18, 2026
• Containment measures include culling of 7,444 birds, disposal of eggs and feed, and establishment of infected and surveillance zones
• Public advised to practice food safety and report flu-like symptoms
• Authorities confirm adequate medical supplies and monitoring systems are in place

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to consume poultry and eggs from the region?

Yes, properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to consume. The H5N1 virus is destroyed by cooking at temperatures of 74°C or higher. Authorities recommend sourcing poultry from licensed vendors and avoiding raw or undercooked products.

What should I do if I develop flu-like symptoms?

Individuals experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention promptly and inform healthcare providers of any potential exposure to birds or poultry environments. Early treatment with antiviral medications like oseltamivir can be effective.

How is the outbreak being monitored?

Active surveillance includes house-to-house fever checks by health workers, alerting hospitals to report respiratory illness cases, and monitoring the Integrated Health Information Platform for suspected cases. The surveillance zone extends up to 10 kilometres from the epicentre.