Health dept monitors bird deaths near Sambhar Lake amid botulism concerns

Jaipur: The state health department officials are keeping an eye on deaths of birds around the Sambhar Lake. The officials said that there are rare chances of transmission of avian botulism from birds to humans, still they are alert on it. They are monitoring patients' health and symptoms in health centres and hospitals near Sambhar Lake to check if there are any cases with unusual symptoms reported in the area.

Alarmed by a surge in bird deaths in Sambhar since late Oct, health officials launched an investigation, initially suspecting bird flu. However, tests have now ruled out the virus, providing some relief amid early concerns.

"The report we received confirmed that the birds did not die of bird flu; instead, it confirmed avian botulism. In bird flu, there is a higher risk of disease transmission from birds to humans, but in avian botulism, the chances of spread from birds to humans are minimal," said a senior health department official.

The Jaipur administration had expressed concerns about the bird deaths and directed health officials to monitor patients with fever, cough, and diarrhoea.

They recommended H5N1 testing for patients in the Sambhar area showing these symptoms. Additionally, they advised testing those involved in bird rescue operations and providing them with free medication. The animal husbandry department will investigate the cause of migratory bird deaths at Sambhar Lake.