Two backyard flocks in Pierce County test positive for highly contagious bird flu
Two backyard flocks of birds in Pierce County have tested positive for avian influenza, also known as bird flu, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
The two affected flocks have a mix of turkeys, chickens, peacocks, ducks and waterfowl.
The presence of the H5N1 avian influenza virus was confirmed on Tuesday after the flock owners contacted the WSDA sick bird hotline to report an unusual number of sudden deaths in their flocks.
The state veterinarian quarantined the affected areas, and the birds that have not already succumbed to the virus will be euthanized.
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“With so many suspicious cases in wild birds pending investigation, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to avoid exposing your flock to wild waterfowl and shorebirds,” said Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Amber Itle. “Call us if you suspect your own birds are sick, and report sick wild birds to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.”
The first detection of the bird flu in Washington occurred on May 5 in a backyard flock in Pacific County.
Two days later, officials confirmed the state’s second detection of bird flu in a backyard flock in Spokane County.
Several other suspect cases reported to the WSDA’s sick bird hotline are currently being investigated.
Washington wildlife officials have also confirmed two cases of avian influenza in wild birds, one in Stevens County and another in Whatcom County, and there are eight more wild bird cases being investigated across the state.
WSDA says there is no immediate public health concern.
Currently, there is no detection of the bird flu in commercial poultry in the state.
Unusual deaths or illness among domestic birds should be reported to the WSDA Avian Health Program at 800-606-3056.
More information can be found at agr.wa.gov/birdflu.
