If you're raising chickens or other poultry in your backyard in North Carolina, vigilance against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is crucial. HPAI, especially H5N1, is highly contagious and can lead to rapid and significant bird losses.
It can spread through bird-to-bird contact, contaminated environments, or even via wild birds that might not show symptoms. Recommendations from NC Department of Agriculture and NC State University to protect home flocks are:
1. Limit Access:
○ Allow only essential people into your poultry areas. Keep pets and wild animals at bay by securing your coop and yard.
2. Hygiene Practices:
○ Thoroughly wash hands before and after interacting with your birds.
○ Dedicate specific clothing and footwear for poultry care. Clean or change these before entering or leaving the poultry area.
○ Disinfect all equipment, tools, and vehicles regularly to prevent disease spread.
3. Control Movement:
○ Minimize the movement of birds in and out of your property.
○ New birds should be quarantined for at least 30 days to ensure they're not carriers of anything, not just HPAI.
4. Feed and Water Management:
○ Keep feed in rodent-proof containers to avoid contamination.
○ Use fresh water and cover the containers to keep wild birds out.
5. Remove Attractants for Wild Birds:
○ Take Down Bird Feeders: During an HPAI outbreak, remove all bird feeders and baths to discourage wild birds from coming near your poultry. These can attract wild birds that might carry the virus.
6. Surveillance:
○ Check your birds regularly for signs of illness, such as sudden deaths, respiratory symptoms, or changes in behavior or egg production. Reduced feed and water consumption can be an indication the birds do not feel well.
Protecting your backyard flock from avian influenza involves proactive biosecurity. If you suspect HPAI immediately contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension Center or state veterinarian without delay.
If you have agricultural questions, please contact the Caldwell Extension Center at 828-757-1290 or email me at seth_nagy@ncsu.edu.
