CENTRAL ZOO AUTHORITY STEPS UP VIGILANCE AMID H5N1 OUTBREAK

Pashu Sandesh, 15 April 2025

As India grapples with fresh outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1), the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has swiftly moved into action to safeguard captive wildlife across the nation’s zoos. In its pivotal role as the statutory body overseeing the functioning and standards of zoos in India, the CZA has issued a series of advisories, circulars, and precautionary protocols aimed at preventing the spread of the highly pathogenic avian flu, especially among vulnerable avian and carnivore species housed in zoological parks.

The CZA, under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has been actively monitoring the situation since early reports of bird flu cases emerged from states like Kerala, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. Recognising the potential zoonotic threat and its implications for animal and human health, the Authority has adopted a multi-pronged approach involving surveillance, biosecurity, and communication.

Advisory Measures and Circulars

A comprehensive advisory was issued earlier this month to all recognised zoos across the country, emphasising stringent biosecurity measures. This includes immediate suspension of the feeding of raw poultry or meat to carnivores and avian species, restriction of visitor access to aviary sections, and mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by zookeepers and veterinary staff.

In an official circular dated April 8, 2025, the CZA directed all zoos to enhance daily health monitoring and report any unusual mortality among birds or respiratory symptoms in susceptible species without delay. The advisory also stressed the importance of disinfecting enclosures, foot baths at all entry points, and regular fumigation of aviaries.

Response and Coordination

The CZA is coordinating closely with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, as well as state forest and veterinary departments, to ensure real-time data sharing and rapid response in case of suspected infections. Special rapid response teams have been constituted in high-risk zones, especially in migratory bird corridors, to track potential sources of the virus.

Zoos have been instructed to halt any new bird acquisitions or transfers until the outbreak is contained. Additionally, postmortem examinations and laboratory testing are being carried out in collaboration with designated disease diagnostic laboratories such as the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal.

Public Awareness and Transparency

The CZA has also taken a proactive stance in engaging with the public. Educational signage regarding avian influenza, its symptoms, and precautionary steps has been installed at various zoos. While there is no immediate threat to zoo visitors, the Authority has reassured the public that all necessary precautions are in place and that zoos remain safe for educational and recreational visits, albeit with restricted access in certain zones. 

The Central Zoo Authority’s timely interventions and structured response underline its crucial role in safeguarding India's captive wildlife heritage. As the H5N1 outbreak continues to be monitored, the CZA’s emphasis on vigilance, early detection, and inter-agency collaboration offers a robust framework to mitigate risks and protect both animals and the public.