Bhubaneswar, Jan 06 (UNI) Odisha Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra today clarified that there have been no reports of any outbreak of bird flu anywhere in the state.

Reviewing the possible outbreak of bird flu in the state, at a high-level meeting here, Mr Mohapatra said 11,000 samples collected from different areas have been tested but not a single sample has been tested positive so far.

The Centre has asked all the states and Union Territories to keep a vigil on any unusual mortality amongst birds and to report immediately to take necessary measures.

The direction was issued after the spread of Avian Influenza in four states which could possibly infect humans and livestock of the country.

The Chief Secretary said strict vigil has been kept on the arrival and movement of the birds. This year more than 12 lakh birds of 184 species came to Chilika lake, over 98,000 birds of 10 species to Bhitarkanika and 1.60 lakh birds to Hirakud reservoir.

Mr Mohapatra said there is no need to be panicked as all preventive measures are being taken and the field level officials are kept alert in areas visited by migrating birds.

The clinical, virological and serological survey have been increased right from the beginning for the identification and prevention of the disease.

The Chief Secretary directed the officials to remain alert to meet any eventuality and to conduct surveys on the water bodies like lakes and reservoirs visited by the migrating birds.

The meeting decided to constitute a rapid response team composed of experienced doctors to meet any exigencies.

The Chief Secretary directed to provide required protective equipment and kits to them.

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