ICMR Real-Time Surveillance of Bird-to-Human Zoonoses in India
Why in the news
India announced a coordinated programme to catch bird-borne infections early, given its many migratory bird habitats and crowded wetland areas.
Key facts
- Lead agency: Indian Council of Medical Research.
- Partners: Health, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Agriculture ministries.
- Locations: Sikkim, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu.
- Who is watched: migratory and resident birds, sanctuary workers, forest officials and nearby communities.
- Tools: live surveillance, biosampling, clinical monitoring of birds and people.
- Symptoms tracked: respiratory, enteric and other early signs.
Why wetlands
- Wildlife, livestock and people interact closely.
- Large migratory bird numbers, some known carriers, make them natural incubators for zoonoses.
Expected outcomes
- Early-warning system for bird-origin illness.
- Repository of avian zoonotic pathogen data.
- Policy framework for fast response.
- Stronger biosurveillance, in line with WHO advice.
Bigger picture
- Boosts pandemic preparedness after COVID and compliance with international health regulations.
- Matches G20 Health Track priorities on One Health and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Exam angle
- Lead body: ICMR.
- Concept: One Health.
- Related terms: zoonosis, biosurveillance, AMR.