Avian Influenza risk in Mangalore

Avian Influenza, commonly called bird flu, is a viral infection that spreads among poultry and wild birds. In rare cases, it can infect humans through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms in people range from mild fever and cough to severe respiratory illness requiring hospitalization. Mangalore faces elevated risk due to several local factors. The city has dense poultry farms and live bird markets concentrated in areas like Surathkal, Jeppu, and the old market districts. Its coastal location makes it a stopover for migratory birds along the west coast flyway. High humidity and monsoon conditions help the virus survive longer in the environment. Open-air slaughter practices and close human-animal contact in backyard farming add to the vulnerability. Here are actionable steps to reduce your risk: Avoid touching sick or dead birds with your bare hands. If you find dead birds in public areas or near water bodies like the Netravati or Gurupura rivers, report them to the Mangalore City Corporation or the local veterinary office immediately. Maintain strict hygiene after handling raw poultry. Wash your hands with soap for at least twenty seconds. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other food items, and cook poultry thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches seventy-four degrees Celsius or higher. Support clean market practices. If you purchase poultry, choose vendors who follow basic sanitation. Avoid buying from unlicensed or informal vendors near roadside stalls. Keep backyard poultry away from living areas. If you or your neighbors maintain home flocks, ensure birds do not enter kitchen or sleeping spaces. Clean coops regularly and limit contact between domestic birds and wild birds. Stay informed. Follow updates from the Karnataka Department of Animal Husbandry and local health authorities. Early reporting and simple daily habits are your strongest protection against Avian Influenza in Mangalore.