March 25, 2026

Authorities in Kozhikode, Kerala, India, start precautionary measures following bird flu outbreak

Authorities have initiated precautionary measures following the confirmation of avian influenza in multiple local bodies in Kozhikode, Kerala, India.

According to animal husbandry department officials, bird flu has been confirmed in Panangad, Olavanna, Kakkodi, and Perumanna panchayats, as well as in Nallalam within the corporation limits.

Laboratory testing of samples collected from the affected areas has confirmed the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, officials said.

Rapid response teams will soon initiate culling operations in these areas. Officials said that there have been no reported cases of transmission to humans, but authorities however urged the public to remain highly vigilant.

In December 2025, bird flu was confirmed in eight panchayats in Alappuzha and in three places in Kottayam leading to the authorities culling more than 30,000 birds.

- The Times of India