Vandalur zoo to reopen tomorrow after bird flu scare

The Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) in Vandalur will reopen to visitors on Sunday, following disinfection and implementation of precautionary measures after the detection of H5N1 avian influenza in water birds.

The zoo was closed to visitors following the confirmation of influenza in water birds by the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal. 

As a precautionary measure, bird enclosures will remain cordoned off and inaccessible to visitors, according to an official release from the zoo administration.

The birds are being closely monitored by the animal care and veterinary teams, and are reported to be healthy and active, the release added.

Vandalur zoo officials said the Health Department conducted a medical screening for zoo staff on October 22. Samples were collected from 26 animal keepers directly involved in animal care and tested for the influenza virus using the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. All 26 samples tested negative for the virus, they said.

The zoo administration has undertaken comprehensive disinfection of the premises, and implemented biosecurity and preventive measures in accordance with prescribed guidelines, the release said. These steps are aimed at safeguarding the health and welfare of the animals and ensuring the safety of visitors and staff members.

The zoo authorities have requested the public to cooperate with their staff and to follow the instructions issued during the visit.

Tiger brought to Vandalur

The 13-year-old tiger captured in Gudalur on October 22 was brought to the Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre at Vandalur for continued veterinary care, rehabilitation, and monitoring.

The animal care and veterinary teams at AAZP will continuously monitor the tiger’s health and provide appropriate treatment and care to ensure its health and welfare, the release said.