Bird Flu Outbreak in India: Is It Safe To Consume Chicken and Eggs?

Authorities across India have sounded an alert for H5N1 avian influenza, even as various states have culled over 7,000 poultry birds and 2,000 eggs as preventive measures. States like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana have reported sudden deaths of chickens, and health officials have identified the cause as bird flu.

Also, in Chhindwara in Madhya Pradesh, authorities confirmed infections in two shops and a household, affecting chickens and a cat. To contain the outbreak, officials have asked for the closure of most chicken shops and poultry farms in affected areas. The sale and transport of poultry products are strictly banned.

According to experts, you can consume eggs that are purchased from a retail market since packaging and storage processes are safe. Doctors say when bought from trusted sources, the risk of contamination is low.

However, make sure to cook them at 175 Fahrenheit—both the yellow and white parts of the egg—to help you get rid of all bacterial and viral contaminants that may increase the risk of infection. Undercooked eggs may not reach the requisite temperatures to neutralise the virus entirely. So boiled and fried eggs are a green tick; half-boiled and runny ones are not.

Also, while it is generally observed to be safe to eat chicken during a bird flu outbreak, it should be properly cooked as well. Experts say your chicken’s internal temperature should be more than 165 degrees Fahrenheit—to kill all bacteria and viruses, including bird flu viruses. You need to also separate raw chicken from cooked foods and foods that you will not be using for cooking. Store raw chicken in a separate container or bag to prevent juices or fluids from dripping onto other foods.

Also make sure to practice good hygiene to prevent cross-contamination with other foods, which includes washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken and cleaning surfaces and utensils that come into contact with raw chicken.

Bird flu is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes spread to humans. The H5N1 strain is the most common in human cases and is known to cause severe illness.

The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds, their droppings or contaminated surfaces. While the symptoms of the infection initially resemble regular flu but often become more severe. Common signs include:

High fever

Cough

Sore throat

Muscle pain

Breathing difficulties.

Doctors say in a few serious cases, it may also lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, or death. The symptoms usually appear 2–10 days after exposure.

Even though there is no specific treatment for bird flu, early medical intervention helps manage symptoms and prevent complications. Supportive care like staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and hospitalisation in severe cases is very important. According to doctors, make sure to seek timely medical attention as it is critical in ensuring better outcomes.

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