Avian influenza, more commonly known as Bird Flu, is a virus that typically affects wild aquatic birds. Of course, if it were to spread to domestic poultry flocks, the consequences could be devastating - both in terms of lives lost and financial costs incurred. Thankfully though early bird flu signs can be spotted before any real damage occurs; offering farmers and their customers an opportunity to minimize losses quickly and efficiently.

Symptoms of Bird Flu in Chicken

Avian flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread in the blink of an eye, wreaking havoc on chickens and their health. In more serious cases, it can lead to death within 24 hours.

 Typical indications of the avian influenza virus in chickens are:

• Swelling in the head and neck area of chickens, including their combs and wattles

• Wattles, combs, and legs may become tinged with an unmistakable shade of purple or cyanotic hue.

• A nasal drip or runny nose is an annoying, but common symptom of the common cold.

• Eggs with fragile shells and imperfect shapes

• A decrease in egg production is becoming increasingly prevalent.

• Uncontrollable bouts of coughing and sneezing

• The head, eyelids, wattles, hocks, and comb may become swollen due to inflammation.

• An absence of vigor and hunger can be easily seen in anyone going through a difficult period. Accurately locate bleeding on the feet and legs also ruffled feathers.

 Avian flu can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including the presence of certain symptoms and sudden death that occurs without warning. Be on the lookout for any telltale signs to protect your flock from this potentially devastating virus.

Identifying Bird Flu Symptoms in Humans

 Although it’s rare for humans to contract avian flu, it can happen. Symptoms such as fever, coughing, sore throat, muscle aches, and conjunctivitis may result from infection. In more serious cases pneumonia and acute respiratory distress can occur.

Additional symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Vomiting

• Neurologic changes

Dealing with Recent Outbreaks

In light of the new cases in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Minnesota, farmers and poultry producers must remain vigilant to protect their flocks from avian flu.

This virus can be spread through two main sources:

• By human interaction

• Through migratory birds

Wild waterfowl, like ducks and geese, can rapidly spread avian influenza if they become infected. This means that not only do poultry flocks local to the wild birds suffer from this dangerous virus but also those further away across our nation.

Safeguarding yourself through proactive measures:

• Make sure to have your flocks tested regularly for optimal health and safety.

• Carefully sanitize all tools and vehicles used to transport poultry and disinfect their living spaces.

• Vigilantly observe flock behavior, health, and appetite for any changes.

• Restrict flock access to only those essential personnel who require it.

• Restricting contact with wild birds from outside is essential to prevent the spread of disease.

• Separate flocks that display signs of contamination for a minimum period of 30 days.

• Never borrow or use equipment from other poultry farms.

The USDA urges all poultry owners to promptly report any signs of avian influenza in their birds.

The current avian flu epidemic brings two distinct strains, which are different from those observed in 2015. The outbreak of the low pathogenic H5N2 strain has targeted a flock of 84,000 turkeys located in Wisconsin while Tennessee is experiencing an even more severe high pathogenic H7 variant.

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