KATHMANDU: Bird flu (H5N1) that first appeared in Morang district has rapidly spread, forcing authorities to cull more than 113,000 birds across four districts, officials said Monday.

The outbreak began in Sundarharaicha-4 and Urlabari-8 in Morang now affects 23 poultry farms. Sunsari has been hardest hit with 12 farms infected, followed by eight in Morang, two in Jhapa, and one in Chitwan. Eggs, feed, and other farm materials were also destroyed to prevent further spread.

Dr. Indira Sharma, senior veterinary officer, said to Nepal News that authorities are coordinating with federal, provincial, and local governments to contain the virus. “All necessary measures have been implemented to prevent the outbreak from reaching other districts,” she said.

Officials identified wild birds, farms near wetlands, poor biosecurity, and unregulated movement of people and vehicles as key factors driving the spread. Improper handling of eggs and live poultry trade also contributed, they said.

Farmers affected by culling will receive compensation of up to 75 percent of assessed losses, according to district-level relief committees.

Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease in poultry and other birds. Experts warn humans can be infected in rare cases through contact with contaminated birds or materials. Nepal first detected H5N1 in 2009, and in 2019, a 21-year-old man from Kavre died from the virus after showing fever and cough.