LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A recent report from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture has confirmed an occurrence of avian flu within a backyard flock situation in Colfax County.
The warning has been issued to poultry producers to maintain a close watch for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and take preventive measures to safeguard their birds against such risks.
Dr. Roger Dudley, the state veterinarian, expressed his concern, stating “While Nebraska hasn’t had any reported cases of HPAI for a few months, we are disappointed but not surprised, to see another case,” in a press release.
The bird flu is a virus known for its high infectivity rate, spreading via nasal and eye secretions, as well as through manure. A pressing concern for poultry establishment, the virus finds its way into flocks through multiple pathways, including contact with wild birds and the presence of contaminated equipment or clothing, according to the Agriculture Department.
It’s alarming that wild birds can carry the virus without any visible symptoms, yet domesticated birds can become critically ill and even succumb to the disease.
Poultry producers have been strongly urged by Dudley to acquaint themselves with the telltale signs and symptoms of bird flu.
These can include decreased water consumption, lack of energy and appetite, reduced egg production or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs, nasal discharge, coughing, and sudden diarrhea among other indicators.
Avian flu has been known to be lethal, causing abrupt bird fatalities, even when no other symptoms are apparent, and it can persevere for several weeks within contaminated settings.
Poultry producers can gain access to a variety of resources, including updated incidence maps within Nebraska, by clicking here.
Any unusual deaths suspected to be linked with bird flu should be promptly reported to the state Department of Agriculture at 402-471-2351 or to the U.S. Department of Agriculture at 866-536-7593.
