23/01/2025
Recently, over 60 geese, swans, and ducks in Plymouth, MA, died in a suspected outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as "Bird Flu."
⭐What is HPAI?
The most recent outbreak of HPAI is caused by the H5N1 virus strain. While rare, the virus can infect humans, with one confirmed death as of January 2025. It has also been found in domestic animals like cats and dairy cows, as well as in wild birds, marine mammals, and other wildlife.
Unfortunately, HPAI is devastating for poultry farmers—infected flocks must be euthanized to prevent further spread, leading to the loss of millions of birds.
⭐How Does HPAI Spread?
- Wild birds are the primary source, but the virus can spread through saliva, f***s, respiratory aerosols, and direct contact between animals.
- Indirect transmission occurs through people and contaminated objects (similar to COVID).
⭐What Can You Do?
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds, especially wild birds.
- Take precautions if you keep poultry, including biosecurity measures to protect your flock.
- Keep your cats inside and dogs leashed.
- Report any suspicious illnesses or deaths in birds to the appropriate authorities.
For more information and tips to protect your animals:
👉 https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/defend-the-flock
👉 https://www.mass.gov/doc/prevent-exposure-to-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-virus-in-your-poultry-flock/download
👉 https://www.mass.gov/forms/poultry-disease-reporting-form
