Bird Flu Sees Resurgence in India: 41 Outbreaks Reported Across 10 States in 2025

Bird flu, or avian influenza, has resurfaced in India with 41 reported outbreaks so far in 2025, the Union government informed Parliament on Wednesday.

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, SP Singh Baghel, said the outbreaks were recorded primarily across 10 states—Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.

The global health community remains alert to the threat of bird flu, given its potential to jump species and infect humans—raising concerns about a wider health crisis if not contained effectively.

Symptoms in Humans

According to Dr. Ankur Gupta, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Fortis Escorts, New Delhi, symptoms of bird flu in humans may include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Muscle aches

• Breathing difficulties

In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), or even respiratory failure.

How the Virus Spreads

Dr. Gupta emphasized that bird flu symptoms often mimic regular influenza. “The virus typically spreads to humans through direct contact with infected birds, including handling live or dead birds, contact with droppings, feathers, or contaminated surfaces like bedding. Preparing infected poultry for cooking also poses a risk,” he said.

Treatment and Management

Dr. Rahul Agarwal, Consultant – Internal Medicine at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad, noted that antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) are generally used to treat avian influenza. These medications help ease symptoms and shorten the illness duration, though their effectiveness can vary based on the virus strain and a patient’s overall health.

In more severe cases, supportive care is crucial. “Patients may require rest, hydration, and even hospitalisation for monitoring and treatment if complications arise,” Dr. Agarwal added.

With rising cases in multiple states, health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while urging the public to follow hygiene practices and avoid direct contact with poultry showing signs of illness.