CHENNAI: A day after 10 crows were found dead on its premises, tension gripped the Kancheepuram District Government Headquarters Hospital on Thursday after more than 20 crows were found dead on the campus. While sanitation workers reportedly buried the birds without informing authorities the first time, Thursday’s incident heightened concerns.
The dead birds were found between February 9 and 12, and more than 10 birds were also seen in a semi-conscious state and unable to fly.
The incident has triggered anxiety among residents amid reports of bird flu cases in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. Adding to the concern, several trainee nursing students from a private nursing college near Sunguvarchatram, who attend clinical training at the Kancheepuram GH, developed fever and cold. They were advised to remain within their hostel.
Hospital authorities said there has been a recent rise in patients reporting fever, throat pain, cold and body aches in Kancheepuram, fuelling public fears over a possible link to Avian Influenza. Residents urged health authorities to conduct tests for those showing symptoms.
However, district health officials said there was no evidence of bird flu in Kancheepuram district. They attributed the increase in fever and respiratory complaints to seasonal viral infections. For throat pain, people have been advised to gargle with warm salt water and seek care at government hospitals.
Officials said the dead crows were safely removed and disposed of and an inquiry is under way to ascertain whether they died of natural causes or possible poisoning.
Meanwhile, chief secretary N Muruganandam on Friday assured that the government has taken precautionary measures. He noted that anyone who needs assistance can dial 104 to reach the control room for information or assistance related to Avian Influenza. He advised the public to consume properly cooked chicken and eggs.