Poultry Samples Tested For Guillain-Barré Syndrome Link Near Khadakwasla Dam In Pune
Poultry Samples Tested For Guillain-Barré Syndrome Link Near Khadakwasla Dam In Pune
Pune, February 21:The Animal Husbandry Department has initiated the collection and testing of cloacal swabs, fecal samples, and water samples from poultry farms near Khadakwasla Dam. This action follows directives from the central and state governments to investigate a possible link between poultry and the spread of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). The collected samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, for examination, according to Animal Husbandry Commissioner Dr. Praveenkumar Deore.
Authorities suspected contaminated water and poultry as potential factors behind the spread of GBS in nearby localities. Inspection teams visited 11 poultry farms, including six operated by Venkateshwara Group for egg production and five individual broiler farms. The Venkateshwara farms followed biosecurity protocols, while waste from other farms was sold as fertilizer.
NIV’s test results revealed Campylobacter jejuni bacteria in 106 cloacal swabs, 89 fecal samples, and five samples tested positive for Norovirus. However, wastewater from the farms was found not to be contaminating nearby water sources.
The department urged farm owners to maintain strict biosecurity, ensure personal hygiene, and prevent poultry waste from reaching water bodies. Despite some media reports linking poultry to the disease, experts clarified that Campylobacter jejuni naturally exists in poultry intestines and is not exclusive to them.
Public Advisory:
Diseases like cholera and bacterial infections spread through contaminated food and water, especially during monsoons. The bacteria can be present in undercooked meat. Citizens should consume properly cooked chicken and boiled water for safety. Dr. Devre assured that there is no risk from consuming well-cooked poultry.
