Wednesday, November 9 2005 14:17 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: In view of possible movement of the dreaded H5N1 bird flu virus into India, Environment Ministry has issued guidelines for the protection of people handling wild birds, both migratory and resident, in and around protected areas.

The ministry has also directed chief wildlife wardens to report any untoward incident immediately and extend full assistance to District Veterinary Authority in collection of samples of dead birds from protected areas.

Affected birds display symptoms such as tremors, diarrhoea, heald tilt and paralysis. The disease spreads quickly causing paralysis and staggering, it said in a release.

The guidelines say that people handling wild birds should wear rubber gloves and protecting clothing that can be disinfected or disposed. These also recommend protective eyewear (goggle) or a face shield to minimize exposure to mucosal membranes.

People should wash hands with soap and water often and disinfect work surfaces and equipment between sites. They should not eat, drink, or smoke while handling animals, these say.