Shillong, Feb 11 (PTI) At least 100 pigeon have died in this north-east hill city in the past one week, though none of the samples have been tested positive for the H1N1 virus. The Assam-based Regional Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (RRDL) confirmed that the blood samples were tested negative for the contagious flu virus, State Veterinary Director L Lyngwa said. He, however, said detailed reports of the samples sent to the department will be made available by Monday. Residents of Keatinge road locality here and government officials went into a tizzy after at least 100 pigeons died in the area in the past one week. State veterinary officials rushed to the area to pick up the dead birds three days back. Veterinary officials said the reason behind the deaths was being looked into. Authorities had last month undertaken culling operation for more than 6000 domesticated birds in Williamnagar town to contain the spread of the virus in a government-run farm. PTI JOP SUS
