January 26: There has been an outbreak of a Paramyxo virus infection in pigeons in Samdrupjongkhar. The residents are worried but livestock officials say there is no reason to panic.

Our reporter Tenzin Dorji who visited the Zangtopelri area says around five to six pigeons have been dying in the area everyday. Monks residing at the Zangtopelri told BBS that the pigeons started dying about two months ago. Then it was one to two deaths everyday. The Dzongkhag Livestock confirmed that it is not the bird flu virus.

The Dzongkhag Livestock officer said this is an outbreak of Paramyxo virus infection which is similar to that of the new castle disease in chickens.

Paramyxo infection is a disease that occurs in pigeons. Speaking to BBS over the telephone, Dr. Jambay Dorji, the Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer of the Regional Office in Trashigang said there is no risk of transmission to humans. He however said the virus can be transmitted among the bird family. However he said it is not safe to consume the meat of infected birds including chickens.

Meanwhile, the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) has beefed up vigilance at the border check points to prevent bird flu from entering the country.