Biosecure Rescue and Surveillance of a Debilitated Asian Openbill Stork (Anastomus oscitants) in Wayanad, Kerala

On 03 January 2026, a debilitated Asian Openbill (Anastomus oscitans) was rescued from a football ground near Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala. The bird presented with severe emaciation (“going light”) and respiratory discharge. Concurrent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in Alappuzha and Kottayam necessitated heightened biosecurity measures. The case was managed using a strict One Health approach, prioritising biosecurity and the protection of nearby poultry assets over routine wildlife rehabilitation. The bird was isolated and handled with appropriate personal protective equipment and provided supportive care, including broad-spectrum antibiotics. Despite treatment, the bird succumbed three days post-rescue. Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs preserved in viral transport medium (VTM) tested negative for highly pathogenic avian influenza. This report highlights the clinical, biosecurity, and regulatory challenges involved in managing high-risk migratory avian species near agricultural systems during active zoonotic disease outbreaks.