Increase Biosecurity: It is extremely important for poultry owners to increase biosecurity measures to protect their birds from HPAI. The USDA Defend the Flock website has helpful resources for keeping poultry healthy in any operation.
Best biosecurity practices include:
- Ensuring all entry requirements including testing for Avian Influenza are met prior to movement of birds.
- Use dedicated footwear and wash your hands when tending your flock.
- Do not let poultry drink untreated water from lakes and ponds.
- Do not let waterfowl become residents close to small domestic flocks.
- Do not come into direct contact with your flocks if you have seen birds in another country or been involved with hunting, or in contact with any other birds (zoos, auctions, flea markets, live bird markets).
Monitor Flocks: Monitor your flock for signs and symptoms of avian influenza including monitoring production parameters (feed and water consumption, egg production) and increased morbidity and mortality. Any changes in production parameters that could indicate HPAI should be reported.
Signs and symptoms of Avian Influenza include:
- Drop in egg production, soft eggshells
- Discolored combs and feet
- Birds stop eating or drinking
- Diarrhea
- Sudden mortality
Report Disease: Promptly report any observation of domestic or wild birds with the signs as described above.
Domestic birds: Call the AI Hotline at 770-766-6850. Testing is free through the gapoultrylab.org/avian-influenza-hotline/
Wild birds: Report dead or sick bald eagles or vultures when seen in unusually high numbers in a single location to DNR at (478) 994-1438.