India has recently reported 11 outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu on farms in the southern state of Kerala, according to information released by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The outbreaks, which occurred last month, were initially detected on December 9 and subsequently confirmed on December 22. This marks the first cluster of avian influenza cases reported among poultry in India since May. The H5N1 virus led to the death of 54,100 birds, predominantly ducks, with an additional 30,289 birds culled as a precautionary measure to prevent further spread of the infection. In total, approximately 84,400 birds were directly impacted by these outbreaks. The affected areas primarily include districts such as Alappuzha and Kottayam within Kerala. The re-emergence of bird flu has prompted significant concern among government authorities and the poultry industry, given its potential to disrupt food supply chains, fuel higher food prices, and, though rare, pose a risk of human transmission. State authorities in Kerala have implemented strict health surveillance, disinfection protocols, and intensified monitoring, with neighbouring states like Tamil Nadu also strengthening biosecurity measures. The situation underscores a wider global challenge in controlling avian influenza, with other countries also reporting recent H5N1 cases.