More bird flu cases confirmed in Okanogan, Whatcom counties
The Washington State Department of Agriculture confirmed Friday that two more cases of the highly infectious avian influenza, also known as bird flu, were detected in Okanogan and Whatcom counties.
The latest cases were found in backyard flocks on Thursday. One flock is made up of around 100 chickens, and the other a mix of nearly 30 chickens, ducks and geese.
Flock owners contacted the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s sick bird hotline to report the unusual number of sudden deaths.
The flocks are quarantined and the birds who have not already died will be euthanized.
The latest cases bring the total number of cases statewide to eight in six different counties — Clallam, Okanogan, Pacific, Pierce, Spokane, and Whatcom.
The department of agriculture says there is no immediate public health concern due to the flu.
The department also advises bird owners to take steps to protect their birds, like staying away from fairs and exhibitions.
“Even though the virus has been detected in backyard and wild birds throughout the state, you can still safeguard your birds – but don’t wait,” Dr. Amber Itle, Washington state veterinarian, said. “If flock owners could remain diligent for just a few weeks until the waterfowl complete their migration north, we are hopeful we can get through the worst of it with lower impact.”
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