Intensive surveillance launched after mysterious death of over 5000 chickens in Cuddalore

Authorities have launched <b>intensive surveillance</b> after more than <b>5,000 chickens</b> died suddenly across poultry farms in Cuddalore's Thiyagavalli panchayat, sparking initial panic among local farmers. Officials from the animal husbandry department swiftly moved to calm public fears by confirming that the possibility of <b>avian influenza</b> or bird flu has been completely ruled out following preliminary laboratory tests. The tragic deaths were first reported at a single farm in Thammanampettai village where roughly 200 to 250 birds perished before spreading to surrounding facilities. Local veterinary teams and district medical officers have collected biological samples from the affected poultry units to determine the exact underlying cause behind this sudden mortality outbreak. While dangerous viral epidemics like bird flu have been dismissed, experts are closely examining potential issues related to feed quality, localized bacterial infections, or extreme weather stress that could trigger such rapid fatalities in closed farm environments. The district administration has advised all nearby poultry owners to strictly maintain biosecurity measures and immediately report any unusual sickness or sudden bird deaths to the nearest veterinary center without delay. This alarming incident highlights the fragile economic reality faced by rural poultry farmers who suffer massive financial losses overnight when sudden livestock mortality strikes their businesses. Ensuring transparent diagnostic results and timely financial relief for affected small-scale farmers remains a crucial test for local administrative authorities to prevent panic and safeguard local livelihoods from collapsing.