Poultry Biosecurity Awareness
ID
APSC-184NP
EXPERT REVIEWED
Six Backyard Flocks Depopulated:
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) detected in Fauquier, Caroline, Southampton, and Gloucester County and Hampton and Virginia Beach City in 2022.
Threat to Virginia Poultry
The virus is carried by migratory birds and could spread to other wild birds and domestic fowl.
Treatment of HPAI
None, the response to a positive test is to eradicate the flock in an attempt to slow the movement of the virus.
Warning signs of HPAI:
- Sudden mortality
- Reduced feed intake
- Reduced egg production
- Misshapen eggs
- Swelling of face and hocks
- Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge
Prevention Methods:
- Raise birds without wild bird contact, including inside or under cover
- Feed and water birds inside and under cover
- Do not allow poultry access to ponds/wetlands
- Use designated equipment/clothing when handling flock
Contact the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 804-786-2483 to report sudden unexplained mortality or visit their website for more information at https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/animals-avian-influenza.shtml
Protect the Flock from USDA
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Publication Date
February 10, 2023
