By Scout Nelson
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has resurged nationwide this fall, including in several states that border Kansas. While Kansas has not confirmed a case of HPAI in a domestic or commercial flock since April 2023, the risk of exposure remains high.
Wild migratory waterfowl are the primary source of spread for this outbreak, so it is important for all poultry producers, from small backyard chicken owners to large commercial producers, to review their biosecurity practices. Biosecurity is a set of practices that help to prevent the spread of disease into and between flocks.
Symptoms of HPAI
HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, gamebirds, turkeys, and other birds. It can cause severe illness and/or sudden death in infected birds.
Symptoms of HPAI include:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Other signs of respiratory distress
- Lack of energy and appetite
- Decreased water consumption
- Decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs
- Incoordination
- Diarrhea
If you observe any of these symptoms in your birds, immediately contact your veterinarian or the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Division of Animal Health office at 833-765-2006.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Flock
There are several biosecurity practices that poultry producers can implement to help protect their flocks from HPAI, including:
Keep your flock isolated from other poultry and wild birds. This means avoiding contact with other people's birds, poultry shows and fairs, and live bird markets.
Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling your birds, their feed and water, and their supplies.
Use clean and disinfected equipment. This includes feeders, waterers, and poultry coops.
Control pests and rodents. Pests and rodents can carry diseases, so it is important to keep them out of your poultry area.
Report any sick or dead birds to your veterinarian or the KDA immediately.
Public Health Risk
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the recent HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. Birds and eggs from infected flocks will not enter the food system.
As a general food safety precaution, the CDC recommends that all poultry and eggs be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
For more information about HPAI, including current status of the confirmed cases in other states as well as more information about biosecurity for your flock, call KDA at 833-765-2006.
Photo Credit: kansas-livestock-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Poultry