What Is Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza, or “bird flu,” is a contagious respiratory disease of birds caused by influenza A viruses. Wild birds, such as ducks, gulls, and shorebirds, can carry and spread these viruses while often showing no signs of illness. However, avian influenza can be highly fatal to domestic poultry, including chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese.

Classification of Avian influenza

Avian influenza viruses are classified based on two surface proteins: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). There are 16 hemagglutinin (H1–H16) and 9 neuraminidase (N1–N9) subtypes, forming various virus strains such as H5N1 and H7N9, which are well-known for their impact on both birds and mammals including humans. More information regarding mammals infection and avian flu can been found by clicking   USDA -APHIS  . Additionally, avian influenza viruses are categorized based on their genetic characteristics and ability to cause disease (pathogenicity), hence the use of term “low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)

What is the difference between LPAI and HPAI

LPAI: Causes mild symptoms such as reduced egg production, respiratory issues, or no signs at all. However, some LPAI viruses, particularly H5 and H7 subtypes, can mutate into HPAI under certain conditions.

HPAI: Causes severe illness and high mortality in poultry, often spreading rapidly and leading to significant economic losses.

How does it spread?

Avian influenza spreads rapidly through direct bird-to-bird contact and can also be transmitted indirectly via contaminated surfaces or materials (such as feed, water, or manure). Migratory waterfowl, such as wild ducks and geese, are natural carriers of the virus and can introduce it to domestic poultry flocks. Additionally, the movement of birds, people, and equipment contributes to the spread of the disease.

The virus can be carried in manure, on egg crates, and other farming materials, and even on people’s clothing, shoes, or hands if they unknowingly come into contact with contaminated areas. Strict biosecurity measures are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of avian influenza in poultry populations.

How is HPAI treated?

There is no cure for bird flu in poultry. The only way to stop the spread is to depopulate all infected and exposed birds. However, some wild bird species have evolved greater resistance to HPAI, making them more likely to survive an infection. This variation in resilience across different bird species significantly influences their chances of recovery from the virus.

 How can I keep my backyard flock and pet birds safe from bird flu?

• Secure feed, drinking water, equipment, and other supplies to prevent access by wild birds or rodents.
• Always wash or sanitize your hands before and after handling birds or moving them between coops.
• Keep pet birds indoors or ensure backyard flocks are housed in fully enclosed areas, away from wild birds and their droppings.
• Avoid visiting places where other birds are kept and restrict visitors from contacting your flock.
• Recognize the signs of HPAI and promptly report any suspected cases to your veterinarian or state animal health official.

Should I worry about the safety of poultry, eggs, and gamebird meat because of bird flu?

Commercial Poultry Products

The risk of infected poultry entering the commercial food supply is extremely low. The USDA’s highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) response plan ensures that infected birds do not reach the food chain. USDA inspectors are present at all federally inspected meat, poultry, and egg product facilities across the U.S., conducting thorough health checks on poultry both before and after slaughter. The USDA’s “inspected for wholesomeness” seal certifies that poultry products are visibly free from disease. These safeguards work together to uphold the safety and quality of commercial poultry products.

Small flock and wild game birds’ poultry products from small flock

Poultry products from non-commercial flocks (i.e., backyard flocks) suspected of being contaminated or infected with bird flu should be avoided. Similarly, there are concerns that meat from game birds, such as quail, pheasants, wild ducks, and geese, may be contaminated. This is particularly important because wild waterfowl are natural reservoirs of bird flu viruses and often show no symptoms, making it difficult to identify infected birds. While properly cooked game bird meat is safe to eat, several risks must be carefully considered..

Tips for Ensuring the Safety of Poultry Meat, Eggs, and Gamebird Meat

Properly cooking poultry, eggs, and gamebird meat to the correct temperature and preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods are essential for food safety. Simple guidelines to ensure the safety of poultry products and gamebird meat include:

• Wash hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw poultry and eggs.
• Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw poultry, eggs, and gamebird meat separate from other foods.
• Wear gloves and maintain proper hygiene when handling gamebirds.
• Thoroughly clean cutting boards, knives, and countertops with hot, soapy water after cutting raw meat.
• Sanitize cutting boards and countertops using a bleach solution.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure poultry and gamebird meat reach a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to eliminate foodborne pathogens, including avian influenza viruses.