After the outbreak of bird flu in the state, Himachal Govt has imposed a ban on import of poultry products for a week from other states.

"A ban has been imposed in the state on import of poultry products for a week from other states in order to ensure that infection does not come from other states through poultry products," the CM said while presiding over a meeting here to take stock of situation arisen due to outbreak of Avian Influenza – H5N1 (bird flu).The CM said that emphasis should be laid on Information, Education and Communication  to sensitize the people of the state regarding adopting safety measures to check further spread of bird flu. Thakur said that till date, about 4357 migratory birds have died of bird flu and these birds were being buried as per the protocol, to prevent the spread of the virus.

About 65 rapid response teams of Animal Husbandry and Wildlife Departments are regularly monitoring the Pong Dam and adjoining areas. Keeping in view the intensity of bird flu, samples of poultry have been sent to RDDL Jalandhar by Animal Husbandry Department, he said.

The Chief Minister said that 1000 dead domestic poultry birds were found dumped in Dharampur sub division of district Solan and these birds were disposed of by deep burial and area was being sanitized as per protocol and samples sent to RDDL Jalandhar for diagnosis.

Till date, 215 other birds were also found dead in various parts of the state, he added.

Thakur directed the officers to keep strict vigil on birds alongside reservoirs and people should be sensitized about proper handling of poultry products.

The Chief Minister further said that it is important to spread awareness amongst people regarding preventive measures from bird flu and directed the concerned officers to take necessary steps in this direction.

He also urged the people to inform the Animal Husbandry and Wildlife Departments if any bird was found dead in their areas.