If highly pathogenic avian influenza arrives in our region, the risk of backyard chickens, ducks or other poultry becoming infected will be greater than commercially-raised poultry because backyard birds have more opportunities to be exposed to wild birds than do birds raised in commercial bird barns.
It is recommended that anyone who raises poultry practice good “biosecurity” to reduce the risk of a variety of diseases getting into their flock. If the avian flu virus does arrive, it will be especially important to protect your poultry from contact with wild birds. Minimize the chances that your birds will share the same pond as wild birds. Do not allow wild birds to visit your chicken coop; use chicken wire to screen out wild birds like ducks.
People who butcher their own poultry should use precautions to protect themselves from exposure to a variety of infections that could be present. This means wearing protective clothing and gloves, working in a clean environment, properly sanitizing equipment and surfaces, and properly disposing of internal organs, feathers and other waste products. Sick birds or ones found dead should never be used for human consumption or fed to pets or other animals.
Are my farm animals like pigs, goats, horses and cows at risk?
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Since H5N1 avian flu virus is not here now, no farm animals are at risk. In general, pigs may be of particular concern since they are susceptible to both human and avian influenza viruses. However, during an H5N1 outbreak in Vietnam in 2004, over 3000 pigs were tested. None had symptoms, and only 8 tested positive for the virus. The World Health Organization concluded that pigs are not playing a role in the current H5N1 outbreak. There are no known cases of avian flu among goats, cows, or horses.
