A backyard poultry flock in Lewis County received a confirmatory positive test result for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), according to the Washington state Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Testing began after the flock owner reported unusual illness and deaths among their birds.
“We are working directly with anyone who may have been exposed to the affected birds to provide guidance and monitor their health,” Dr. Joseph Wiley, health officer with Lewis County Public Health & Social Services, said in a news release. “At this time, we have no reports of illness in people connected to this flock.”
Avian influenza, often referred to as bird flu, is caused by influenza Type A viruses that naturally circulate in wild aquatic birds but can spread to domestic poultry and other bird species. While human cases are uncommon, they typically occur after close or prolonged contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
Although HPAI spreads easily among birds, the risk to the general public continues to be low, according to Lewis County Public Health & Social Services. Individuals who have direct contact with sick or deceased birds, or with contaminated materials, may have increased risk and should take basic precautions.
Anyone who suspects avian influenza in their flock should wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling birds, entering coops, or interacting with feed, water, bedding, or surfaces that could carry virus-contaminated droppings or fluids. Flock owners can help reduce risk by limiting interactions between domestic birds and wild birds or other wildlife.
Guidance on preventing avian influenza in poultry is available on the WSDA website at https://tinyurl.com/bdfe6mwj.
The Lewis County case comes nearly a month after a Grays Harbor County resident died from complications of H595 avian influenza in the world’s first confirmed human bird flu infection.
