Montgomery County residents are encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which is affecting wild bird, poultry and dairy herd populations throughout the U.S. While the risk to humans remains low, it is important to take precautions when encountering sick or dead birds.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture recently confirmed a case of HPAI, caused by the H5N1 strain, in a Montgomery County backyard chicken flock. The infected chickens have been euthanized to prevent further spread, and all exposed individuals are being closely monitored for any signs of illness.
Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a contagious viral infection that has affected more than 149.9 million birds in the U.S., including commercial and backyard poultry. The USDA has also reported H5N1 infection in more than 950 dairy cow herds across the U.S.
As of Feb. 4, 67 human cases of avian influenza have been reported in the U.S., with one death. Forty of these human cases were associated with exposure to sick dairy herds, and 23 were associated with exposure to infected poultry. No person-to-person transmissions have been detected.
The virus spreads easily through nasal and eye secretions, as well as bird droppings. Wild birds, particularly waterfowl like ducks and geese, play a key role in spreading the virus from one flock to another. Backyard poultry owners should be especially vigilant, as the virus can also spread via contaminated equipment, clothing and footwear.
Backyard flock owners are required to register their birds with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Registration helps protect both Maryland’s poultry industry and your flock from diseases like HPAI.
Though the risk of transmission to humans is low, residents should follow these necessary precautions to protect themselves. If you find a dead bird:
- Personal Backyard Flock of Poultry
Call the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810 (410-841-5971 after hours) or email md.birdflu@maryland.gov. - Waterfowl (duck, goose, swan, gull) or Bird of Prey (hawk, falcon, vulture)
Call the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810 or toll-free in Maryland at 1-877-463-6497 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on state holidays. - Songbird (cardinals, bluejays, etc.)
Safe to dispose of on your own. The risk that a songbird has avian flu is extremely low.
Ensure that your pets, especially dogs, do not come in contact with sick or dead birds.
Residents can help prevent the spread of avian flu by avoiding areas with sick or dead birds and following the guidelines set by state and local authorities. Poultry owners should continue to practice proper biosecurity measures to protect their flocks.
For the latest updates and additional information about avian flu, visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s website.
