Date: February 14, 2025
Bird Flu Scare in AP: CM Chandrababu Naidu Clarifies Facts
Bird Flu Panic in Andhra Pradesh: CM Naidu Clears the Air
Chicken is one of the most consumed meats in India, particularly among Telugu households, where it is a staple in daily diets. However, the recent outbreak of bird flu (avian influenza) and the reported deaths of thousands of chickens have led to widespread fear.
In response, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has issued a clarification, urging people not to fall for false reports and misinformation circulating on social media. His firm assurance aims to restore public confidence and prevent unnecessary panic in the poultry industry.
Bird Flu in AP: What Are the Facts?
To address the public concerns, CM Naidu directed Minister Atchannaidu to release official data about the situation. In a press conference, Atchannaidu shared the accurate numbers, debunking false claims.
Reality Check: Official Figures vs. Fake News
- 🟢 Total Poultry Population in AP: 10.78 crore
- 🔴 Actual Bird Flu Deaths Reported: 5.42 lakh
- 🚫 Fake News Claims: 40 lakh chickens dead
- 🧪 Samples Sent for Testing: Sent to Bihar for further verification
Atchannaidu stated:
“There is a false narrative on social media exaggerating the bird flu deaths. In reality, only 5.42 lakh chickens have died, and we have taken preventive measures to control the spread. The situation is not as alarming as being portrayed.”
Is Chicken Meat Safe to Eat? CM Naidu’s Assurance
The biggest concern among the public is whether it is safe to consume chicken and eggs amid the bird flu outbreak. CM Naidu and health experts have clearly stated that there is no risk if poultry products are cooked properly.
✅ Properly cooked chicken and eggs are safe for consumption.
✅ Bird flu does not spread through well-cooked meat.
✅ The state government is closely monitoring the situation.
At a time when the Telangana government issued precautionary advisories against consuming chicken, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu took a science-based approach, ensuring that the poultry industry does not suffer from unnecessary losses.
Economic Impact: Bird Flu and AP’s Poultry Industry
The poultry industry in Andhra Pradesh is a multi-billion rupee sector that employs thousands of people across the state. The spread of misinformation about bird flu has severely impacted sales, causing:
- 📉 Sharp decline in chicken prices due to reduced demand.
- 🚜 Farmers suffering losses as panic spreads among consumers.
- ❌ Poultry waste due to decreased consumption.
To counter these effects, CM Naidu’s firm stance on the safety of chicken meat is a strategic move to prevent further economic damage. The government is also working on sanitization efforts and regular health monitoring of poultry farms.
What Precautions Should Consumers Take?
While CM Naidu assured that chicken meat is safe, the government advises citizens to follow basic food safety measures:
✔ Cook chicken thoroughly at a minimum of 70°C (158°F).
✔ Avoid raw or undercooked poultry products.
✔ Wash hands and utensils properly after handling raw chicken.
✔ Purchase meat from trusted sources to ensure hygiene.
Following these guidelines can eliminate any potential risk and allow people to continue enjoying chicken without worry.
Final Word: No Need to Panic!
With the chief minister himself addressing the issue, the bird flu panic in Andhra Pradesh is expected to subside soon. The actual number of chicken deaths is far lower than social media rumors suggest, and scientific evidence confirms that cooked chicken is completely safe to eat.
👉 Stay tuned for further updates on the bird flu situation in AP!