A bird flu outbreak has been reported in two cases in Alabama, resulting in the killing of thousands of chickens to contain the spread of the disease. The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) confirmed that two flocks, one commercial and one backyard, were infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
The affected areas were quarantined, and all chickens in those areas were euthanized as part of the response. Poultry within six miles of the Cullman site are now being tested and monitored for bird flu symptoms.
According to the ADAI, bird flu is not considered a high health risk to people but can be highly infectious among birds. Infected birds are not allowed to enter the food supply.
Symptoms of HPAI include sudden death in flocks, sneezing, gasping for air, coughing and nasal discharge, watery diarrhea, lack of energy and poor appetite, drop in egg production, swelling of the head and other parts of the body, and ruffled feathers.
The public is encouraged to keep away from poultry suspected of having bird flu and to wash hands and clothes if they come into contact with it. Those reporting sick or dead wild birds can call the Alabama Department of Natural Resources and Conservation at 334-242-3469, while domestic bird and poultry reports should be made to the ADAI’s Poultry Unit at 334-240-6584.
Source: https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/thousands-of-chickens-killed-in-central-alabama-following-discovery-of-bird-flu-in-2-counties