Bird Flu Confirmed at Vandalur Zoo, Entry Closed for Two Days

Vandalur, October 22 (Daily Kiran) : The presence of bird flu has been confirmed at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur, located on the outskirts of Chennai. The H5N1 avian influenza virus was detected in aquatic birds at the facility. As a precaution, zoo officials have suspended public entry for two days.

Access to the park will be restricted on Thursday and Friday to curb the potential spread of the virus. The confirmation came from a report by the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, which indicated that the aquatic birds at the zoo are infected with the H5N1 virus, responsible for bird flu.

In response to the outbreak, authorities have begun cleaning and disinfecting the areas where the birds are housed. The zoo administration has tightened biosafety measures to prevent further transmission of the virus.

This closure affects not only the bird enclosures but also restricts public access throughout the entire park. Spanning approximately 1,260 acres, Vandalur Zoo is one of Chennai’s major tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. The expansive grounds are home to thousands of animals and birds across more than 150 species.

In addition to birds, the park houses a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, and turtles. Visitors can also observe lions and tigers from protected vehicles, a feature that consistently attracts large crowds.

Currently, the administration is focused on disinfection, cleanliness, and enhancing biosafety protocols. With the zoo closed for two days, visitors are advised to postpone their trips on Thursday and Friday.

Details regarding the number of infected birds or any fatalities have not been disclosed. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding the detection of the virus and the sampling process prior to laboratory confirmation remain unclear.