Wed Feb 05 20:00:00 IST 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Poultry Industry Devastated by Deadly Virus Outbreak**
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, February 5, 2025** – A deadly virus is wreaking havoc on Andhra Pradesh’s poultry industry, resulting in the daily deaths of thousands of chickens and causing widespread losses for farmers. The outbreak, primarily affecting poultry farms in West Godavari district (Tanuku, Thadapalligudem, Bhimavaram, Unguturu, and Kollegal areas), has already claimed an estimated 20 million birds out of a total of 130 million.
Daily egg production has plummeted from 10.5 million to 8.5 million, and the situation is worsening. While the exact nature of the virus is still under investigation (samples have been sent to a high-security lab in Bhopal), veterinary officials report that the severity of the outbreak is greater this year than in previous years when similar mortality was seen during December-February. Contributing factors are believed to be increased migration of birds to the Kollegal region, a lack of biosecurity measures by some farmers, and improper disposal of deceased birds.
Dr. Damodara Naidu, Director of Veterinary Services, stated that deaths are higher in poultry farms than in backyard flocks. He emphasized that while the situation is serious, there is no evidence linking consumption of chicken meat or eggs to illness or death. He urged the public to consume cooked poultry products without fear.
Poultry farms are implementing strict lockdown measures, including perimeter fumigation, sanitization protocols, and restricted access. Farmers are calling on the state government for immediate intervention to prevent the collapse of the industry. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is expected to hold a special meeting to address the crisis.
First Piper 