Advertisement

The poultry industry is falling victim to Coronavirus misinformation; delegation meets Sharad Pawar demanding compensation


The poultry industry is falling victim to Coronavirus misinformation; delegation meets Sharad Pawar demanding compensation
SHARES

Rumors are currently rampant about the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) across the city. One such dangerous rumor making the rounds is that the virus can spread more rapidly with the consumption of poultry or non-vegetarian products like chicken and eggs. This has consequently taken its toll on the poultry industry in the state. 


A delegation of the poultry owners met with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and the state minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development, Sunil Kedar. It is said that the poultry owners delegation also demanded financial compensation for the losses incurred due to the spread of the rumors. 


Also Read - One More Joined The List, No Big Deal: Raj Thackeray On Coronavirus Outbreak


“The poultry owners submitted a status report to us. Their contention was that following rumours that the disease is transmitted due to consumption of chicken and eggs, the industry is on the verge of collapse. They have demanded that the losses suffered by them should be compensated by the central and state governments,” Kedar was quoted as saying by TOI.


It is worth mentioning that the prices of chicken and eggs have fallen significantly over the past few weeks. Chicken, for example, which on average cost around Rs 75 per kilogram a few weeks ago, now only costs Rs 15, it is said. 


Eggs have also seen a fall from grace with the prices dipping from Rs 4.67 to Rs 2 per egg. It is said that several workers have also lost their jobs in this sector as a consequence. Prices of chicken feed have reportedly seen a fall as well, thus impacting the industry massively.


Authorities and health officials have made it abundantly clear that consuming non-vegetarian foods or poultry of any kind are not linked with the spread of the coronavirus. 


The same can be said about alcohol, which was initially rumored to be a cure for the virus. Doctors have confirmed that there is no known link between coronavirus and alcohol consumption. 


The spread of misinformation appears to be deadlier than the virus itself as evidenced by the poultry industry’s troubles. Citizens are recommended to only heed recommendations from official sources like the WHO (World Health Organization) or the Union Health Ministry’s social media team.





RELATED TOPICS
Advertisement
MumbaiLive would like to send you latest news updates