The Centre has asked the National Institute of Virology,NIV, Pune to carry out genome studies and sequencing of the new Influenza Virus H5N8 to know the source of origin of the infection in birds. Animal Husbandry Secretary ,Devendra Chaudhry reviewed the prevailing situation of Avian Influenza (H5N8) in wild and migratory birds in National Zoological Park, Deer Park and other places in Delhi and in other affected States. <br/><br/>During the meeting,he emphasised on the need to expedite the testing of samples and timely actions to facilitate States in taking effective control and containment measures. He said, necessary advisories have been issued from time to time to all the affected States as well as other States to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.<br/><br/>The Union Health Ministry has also said there is low public health risk from Avian Influenza – H5N8. An official release said, a Joint Coordination Committee in the Department of Animal Husbandry is monitoring the situation. <br/><br/>Health Ministry has advised the States to use personal protective equipment by those handling dead and sick birds, keep persons exposed to the dead and sick birds under surveillance and provide them medication.<br/><br/>Meanwhile, one death of bird was reported today from the National Zoological Park,New Delhi due to suspected avian influenza or Bird Flu.According to a release issued by the Environment Ministry, there is no report of death of bird form Deer Park, Delhi and Gwalior Zoo. <br/><br/>The Monitoring Committee constituted by the Ministry reviewed the control and containment of the avian influenza situation today. The measures to control the spread of avian influenza in the affected zoos are in place.It said, the zoo is being screened regularly for any dead bird. Bio-security measures are being strictly enforced.