Can people get bird flu?
According to the State Department, the risk of human infection with avian influenza is extremely low Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Scientists say bird flu is not easily transmitted from birds to humans, and no “continuous transmission” from human to human has occurred. Despite the fact that millions of birds have fallen ill and died, there are no recorded cases of “continuous transmission”.
In April 2022, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment found that an individual working on a poultry farm tested positive for avian influenza. The question remains if this person was actually infected, or if the positive result was due to exposure to the virus. There are no other known human exposures at this time.
What is the status of HPAI incidents in the United States?
It is affiliated with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). confirmed cases Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
APHIS works closely with state animal health officials on joint responses to incidents. State officials have quarantined affected buildings, and birds on the property have been evacuated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Birds from flocks will not enter the diet.
What do chicken producers do to prevent bird flu?
Avian influenza is a serious issue that chicken farmers are watching closely with the USDA. The United States has the most robust surveillance and surveillance program in the world – and has detailed plans to reduce the spread among herds and eliminate the virus entirely. All US herds are tested prior to processing for Bird flu. if If one bird in a flock were to test positive for HPAI, then none of those birds would be allowed into the food supply.
Collectively, farmers, the USDA, and the poultry industry continue to monitor the virus closely and have extensive surveillance and comprehensive biosecurity measures in place to keep flocks protected. Strict biosecurity practices On the farm is the key to prevent chickens from contracting Bird flu.
See biosecurity practices in action Learn how farmers monitor the health of their chicken flock.
What happens if an outbreak of avian influenza occurs in a poultry farm?
In the event of an outbreak, the poultry industry has strict procedures in place and works directly with state and federal governments to identify and eliminate the problem and limit the spread of the disease.
When avian influenza is detected, the following 5-step response plan is implemented:
1. Quarantine
The farmer ensures that the affected herd and any nearby equipment remain in one area.
2. Excision
Infected herds are euthanized quickly and humanely by the following methods approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
3. The test
USDA protocols and testing requirements are followed to ensure that the farm is free of avian influenza before allowing the arrival of a new flock.
4. Cleanse
The infected farm is thoroughly disinfected to ensure that any traces of the virus are destroyed.
5. Monitoring
Observing wild birds in a wide surrounding “control” area.
Chickens from flocks infected with avian influenza should never be allowed into the food chain.
What can I do at home to make sure my chickens are safe from bird flu?
Avian influenza is not a foodborne disease. This means that you cannot get it from eating properly cooked poultry. And if a chicken flock tests positive, it will not enter the food chain.
But as always, proper method and cooking should be followed when preparing raw chicken. Get tips on how to handle safe food on the go Roast chicken.
For more information on birds flu,It is the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the USDA webpage.