Overview

• The National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal confirmed H5N1 in samples from two painted storks on August 28 after the zoo sent the specimens for testing earlier this week.
• Visitor entry is suspended from Saturday till further notice as the facility implements segregation of birds, disinfection of enclosures, and tightened biosecurity.
• Zoo officials say the next 21 days are critical, with random testing and close monitoring planned to detect any spread.
• Central Zoo Authority guidance calls for sampling every 15 days for at least four rounds and reopening only after two consecutive negative results following the last positive finding.
• Tiger and lion cubs have been placed under special observation due to risks to large carnivores, following earlier Delhi Zoo bird‑flu incidents in 2016 and 2021.