Cedar Rapids Today

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. It remains safe to eat poultry products.

HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys. The virus can spread through droppings or nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil. Clinical signs of the disease include:

• Sudden death
• Decreased water consumption
• Lack of energy and appetite
• Soft- or thin-shelled or misshapen eggs
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge
• Stumbling or falling down
• Diarrhea
• Decrease in egg production

All bird owners, including backyard flock owners, should practice good biosecurity, prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual deaths to state/federal officials. Practicing good on-farm biosecurity is the best way to keep your birds healthy. Biosecurity resources and best practices are available at iowaagriculture.gov/biosecurity.

If you suspect signs of HPAI in your flocks, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture at (515) 281-5305.

Original source can be found here.