Highly pathogenic avian influenza is a disease carried by wild birds that can affect domestic birds. Avian influenza is caused by the influenza Type A virus. The virus is shed in the feces and respiratory secretions of infected birds and is able to survive for weeks in cool damp environments.
Despite the recent snow and cold, millions of birds are set to begin migrating this spring. Positive cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in backyard and commercial flocks are currently occurring across the United States. Now is the time for poultry and bird owners to increase biosecurity efforts.
“One of the first clinical signs of HPAI is sudden unexplained death,” said Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist. “Most HPAI cases are reporting a decline in water and feed consumption prior to the unexplained death.”
Decreased egg production and depression in layers may be another sign that birds are not feeling well. Purple or dry combs, being quieter than normal, frequent laying down and swelling around eyes are other symptoms birds may experience.
“The best way to reduce the potential for transmission of HPAI is to reduce interaction between wildlife and domestic flocks,” said Stokka. “Wild birds and mammals, such as foxes, coyotes and raccoons, are transmission vectors to your domestic flocks.”
North Dakota State University-Extension specialists have developed tips for reducing transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
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Follow recommendations to reduce transmission between wildlife and domestic birds.
- If possible, keep poultry housed until the risk for transmission has decreased.
- Reduce the attractiveness for wildlife to stop by cleaning up litter and spilled feed around the domestic flock housing.
- If a producer comes in contact with or handles wildlife, change into clean clothes, wash hands and disinfect footwear prior to contact with domestic flocks.
- Report sick or deceased wildlife to the local wildlife department.
- In the event a producer needs to handle or dispose of carcasses to reduce potential interactions, be sure to follow the appropriate procedures.
Mary Keena, North Dakota State University-Extension livestock environmental management specialist, said, “The best defense against HPAI is having a biosecurity plan in place. It is your job as a flock owner to create a line of separation between your clean flock and the potential unclean issues that wildlife or visitors may bring.”
Follow recommendations to reduce transmission between domestic flocks.
- Keep distance. Restrict access to property and flock. Allow contact from people who care for birds but minimize visitors.
- Do not haul disease home. If producers have been near other poultry or bird owners, such as at feed stores, clean and disinfect car and truck tires. New birds should be kept separate from a flock for at least 30 days.
- Do not borrow disease from a neighbor. Do not share lawn and garden equipment, tools or bird supplies with a neighbor or other flock owners.
Miranda Meehan, North Dakota State University-Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist, said, “Poultry testing positive for HPAI are prohibited by law from entering the marketplace. Poultry and poultry products are safe to eat, and proper handling and cooking is always advised.”
To date, there have been no positive highly pathogenic avian influenza cases in domestic poultry or birds in 2024 in North Dakota. Report sick birds to a local veterinarian. Visit bit.ly/defendtheflock for more information.