MRI probes cranes' deaths

by Asha SENEVIRATHNE

The National Medical Research Institute resumed investigations on the deaths of the cranes around the Hambegamuwa Tank.

The Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry with the MOH Office of Thanamalwila under the supervision of the Veterinary Surgeon of the area has resumed investigations following the sudden deaths of a few cranes in the Hambegamuwa Tank in Moneragala recently.

On hearing about the incident, the Public Health Unit took steps to inform the Health Minister.

Deputy Director General Dr. Palitha Maheepala of the Unit instructed the Thanamalwila MOH to resume investigations.

When the bodies of two birds were examined by the MOH and Veterinary Surgeon, it was found that there was a large number of worms in their abdomen. Thereafter, the relevant parts of the birds were referred to the MRI to ascertain whether they died due to a worm related disease.

According to the symptoms, these birds had died not due to the Avian Influenza - H5N1. Experiments are being conducted to ascertain whether they died as a result of some other disease or intake of a poisonous substance. Mostly the migratory birds die of Avian Influenza - H5N1 virus, but the deaths of these birds such as diyakawa and mahakoka were unknown.

Migratory birds are not seen in this area. The Ministry said that there is no reason to fear.

It is reported that some people eat these dead or sick birds' flesh.