KRISHNAGAR, Feb. 10: At a time when it was believed the state has succeeded to get rid of avian influenza after no unnatural deaths of chickens were reported over the past few days, fresh chicken deaths were reported today in Ranaghat-II block in Nadia. According to reports, over 1,300 chickens died of a mysterious disease in different poultry farms in Ranaghat-II block in Nadia. The symptoms of the disease are similar to avian influenza. The district authorities sent a team to collect samples and take note of the situation. Mr Onkar Singh Meena, Nadia district magistrate said, "I came to know that fresh chicken deaths were reported in the district. I have sent a team to verify the situation. The team would enquire whether the symptoms of the disease are similar to bird flu. The team will also look after the environment of the poultry farm.' The deputy director of the district animal resource department, Mr Amalendu Saha said: " We are yet to receive any such report but we will look into the matter. Proper precautionary measures will be initiated if the report is true.' It can be recalled that the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus had wreaked havoc, mainly in the backyard poultry. And that was the reason why the state government faced real trouble to stop the spread of the disease. If the disease is confirmed as bird flu, the organised sector could also suffer the heat.