Let knowledge be your weapon against bird flu

This picture has been used for representational purpose

Even as the pandemic plays out and the vaccine throws its shadow over all of us, bird flu is a cause for concern across the country. Reports in this paper and across the country have focussed on avian influenza, with leaders assuring people that the possibility of transmission from birds to humans is very less.

There has also been a noticeable fall in the poultry business. Many poultry stores have downed shutters. Several others are reporting falling rates of chicken and eggs.

It is good that we have taken certain precautions when it comes to this. It has already been officially confirmed that birds in the state have been infected by the bird flu.

We need caution of course, but we also need to have a sense of balance. Avoid spreading rumours and wild conjecture that causes more harm and creates a sense of panic that can easily cross over into paranoia.

Poultry outlets have been shut in containment areas, and there are avenues to complain in case one thinks a particular outlet may pose a danger. Any kind of violence or vandalism targeting meat stores should not take place. One cannot take the law into one's own hands.

We must also ensure that housing societies or committees do not target individuals who eat meat or eggs. We already have health officials saying that the flu cannot be transmitted in this way, so let us acknowledge and respect that. Shaming or threatening people because they eat the meat is abhorrent and needs to be very strictly tackled.

A sense of balance and sound knowledge, are our weapons when we combat outbreaks. Put hygiene, distancing and wearing a mask at the top of the charts. We should be well-prepared to tackle any outbreak. Let us make this part of our DNA.