A bird flu outbreak has been detected at three poultry operations in Maryland and Delaware, affecting over 500,000 chickens. The Washington region’s officials have taken precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
According to Jennifer Trout, Maryland state veterinarian, the outbreaks are a result of the current season. Wild bird outbreaks and positive flocks in Delaware have already been reported. To prevent further transmission, the poultry industry is taking safety measures.
The H5N1 respiratory virus spreads quickly among birds through eye and nasal secretions and manure. Experts warn that the risk of transmission to humans is low but rising concern exists due to a recent death from avian influenza in Louisiana.
There have been previous bird flu cases in dairy cattle, wildlife sanctuaries, zoos, pet cats, and humans who had contact with infected farm animals. Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks warned poultry farmers to remain vigilant as the disease can be devastating to operations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 66 confirmed human cases of bird flu in the US since April, most of which involved mild illnesses. To prevent the spread, health departments have protocols in place, including testing for H5N1, wastewater monitoring, and investigating reports of sick wildlife or poultry.
Experts say that bird flu is behaving differently this season, with remarkable staying power. The virus has affected over 134 million wild birds, commercial poultry, and backyard flocks across the US since 2022. To protect themselves, hunters, chicken owners, and those in commercial poultry operations should take precautions, such as avoiding contact with sick birds and keeping pets away from wild birds.
The US Department of Agriculture ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply due to bird flu affecting consumers’ pocketbooks. Egg prices are spiking amid shortages. Experts advise taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of bird flu and protect public health.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2025/01/11/dc-area-bird-flu-poultry-snow-geese-safety-warnings