Avian Influenza
By Jade Greene
4-H Youth Livestock Agent
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or “bird flu” is a rapidly spreading viral disease that can infect many types of birds. The first case in a commercial flock in the United States was on February 8, 2022. The USDA reports that 1,464 flocks across the United States have been affected since the start of the outbreak. 677 of those were commercial flocks and 787 were backyard flocks. The number of affected birds has risen to 145.08 million and is expected to grow further.
Kansas has not had an infected poultry flock since spring 2024. There continues to be concern for the disease, as it appears to be spread during the migration of wild birds. Birds can shed influenza virus in their saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. Contact with an infected bird is not the only way to spread the disease. HPAI can also be transmitted through infected food or water.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture encourages poultry producers to take the following steps to help prevent HPAI.
- Prevent contact with wild birds, especially wild waterfowl. Remove any potential nesting areas for wild birds.
- Cover and enclose outdoor feeding areas, and cover stored feed.
- Take all possible steps to separate wild birds from having any access to your flock or their living area.
- Clean and disinfect any vehicle tires or equipment that has been on other farms or other locations where there is poultry or wild birds.
- Wear clean clothing, boots and shoes when in contact with your flock.
- Restrict unauthorized people and vehicles.
- Isolate new birds.
- Stay informed about the health of birds in your area.
Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of respiratory distress; lack of energy and appetite; decreased water consumption; decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; incoordination; and diarrhea are symptoms to watch out for. Birds can also die without symptoms.
Be sure to contact your veterinarian or call KDA Division of Animal Health at 833-765-2006 with any suspected cases.
