2006 H5N1 outbreak in India

2006 H5N1 outbreak in India refers to the avian influenza epidemic that occurred in India in the year 2006. The outbreak was caused by the H5N1 strain of the Influenza A virus, which is highly pathogenic and can cause severe disease in both birds and humans.

Background

The H5N1 virus was first identified in China in 1996 and has since spread to various parts of the world, causing significant mortality in poultry and sporadic human infections. The virus is transmitted from birds to humans through direct contact with infected birds or their droppings, or indirectly through contaminated environments.

Outbreak

The 2006 H5N1 outbreak in India was first reported in the western state of Maharashtra, where thousands of chickens were found dead in several poultry farms. The Indian government responded by culling millions of birds in the affected areas to prevent the spread of the virus. Despite these efforts, the virus spread to several other states, including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

Impact

The outbreak had a significant impact on India's poultry industry, with losses estimated at over $1 billion. It also raised concerns about the potential for human infections, although no human cases were reported in India during the outbreak. The outbreak highlighted the need for improved surveillance and control measures to prevent future outbreaks.

Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) provided technical assistance to the Indian government in managing the outbreak. This included support for surveillance, laboratory testing, and control measures such as culling and vaccination.

See also

• Avian influenza
• Influenza A virus subtype H5N1
• 2006 H5N1 outbreak in the United Kingdom