Wherever avian influenza (bird flu) emerges, it poses a serious risk to poultry production and public health. India’s experience in 2025 illustrates this ongoing challenge.

This year, India has detected more than 40 cases of bird flu across 10 states. Whilst this marks a decline from the 49 outbreaks during the same period in 2024, the virus continues to circulate widely.

Notably, infections have been confirmed not only in poultry but also in non-avian species such as tigers, lions, leopards, and domestic cats, highlighting the virus’s ability to cross species barriers and increasing the risk of transmission to humans.

Although human cases remain rare, isolated incidents have occurred. In one case this year, a child contracted bird flu despite no confirmed outbreak in their immediate area. Given that neighbouring districts had reported infections, it’s likely the child was exposed to an infected bird that had not yet been identified.

Why Biosecurity Matters

Biosecurity is vital for preventing disease in poultry production. It refers to the practical measures taken to prevent the introduction and spread of infectious agents on farms and within flocks. In the context of avian influenza, effective biosecurity is essential for protecting poultry health, safeguarding the livelihood and reputation of the producer, reducing the risk to public health and maintaining food security. Practical biosecurity measures include restricting access to poultry areas, preventing entry of wild birds, controlling pests, and maintaining a robust cleaning and disinfection programme.

The Role of DEFRA-Approved Disinfectants

In the UK, the deployment of disinfectants approved by the UK government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) adds confidence to disinfection programmes because these products are tested for efficacy against specific pathogens and must be used at defined dilution rates depending on the disease in question. Products like OmnicideTM, manufactured by Mirius, meet these standards and are listed for use under the Diseases of Poultry Order and the Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals Order.

You can explore the cleaners and disinfectants manufactured in the UK and distributed globally by Mirius here. To view the list of disinfectants approved for use in the UK by DEFRA, see the DEFRA disinfectant register.

Links:

  1. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/41-cases-of-bird-flu-in-10-states-in-2025-centre-8990214
  2. https://health.medicaldialogues.in/health/india-reports-41-bird-flu-cases-2025-government-takes-steps-to-control-spread-152762
  3. https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/spotlights/h5n1-summary-08042025.html#:~:text=or%20dead%20poultry.-,India,encephalitis%20in%20Vietnam%20during%202025.