Highly Contagious Bird Flu Detected in Whatcom County Flock

Health officials in Whatcom County have reported a confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard chicken flock. According to a November 20 release from Whatcom County Health and Community Services, the affected flock included about 20 birds of mixed species—chickens, turkeys, and ducks. To prevent further spread, the remaining birds were “depopulated” as a precautionary measure.

Risk to Humans: Low but Present

While the risk of bird flu transmission to the general public is low, individuals who have direct contact with infected birds, such as farmers, poultry hobbyists, and hunters, face a higher risk. These individuals are advised to take preventive measures, including wearing protective gear and staying up to date with seasonal flu vaccinations.

The county emphasized that although there is no widely available vaccine for bird flu, receiving the seasonal flu vaccine can reduce the risk of co-infection, which could complicate health outcomes.

Precautions for Backyard Bird Owners

Bird owners are encouraged to limit their flock’s exposure to wild animals, which can carry and spread the virus. Keeping backyard birds contained and following biosecurity measures can help minimize the risk of infection.

Chickens stand in a holding pen at Ettamarie Peterson’s farmin Petaluma, Calif. on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024. There are concerns that the flock of 50 hens could be infected with avian flu. A year after the bird flu led to record egg prices and widespread shortages, the disease known as highly pathogenic avian influenza is wreaking havoc in California, which escaped the earlier wave of outbreaks that that devastated poultry farms in the Midwest. (AP Photo/Terry Chea)

Monitoring Bird Flu in the Region

Whatcom County health officials have been tracking bird flu cases since its detection in Washington state in 2022. To date, there are no confirmed human cases of the H5N1 bird flu strain in Whatcom County, though positive cases have been identified in humans within Washington state and British Columbia.

Safety Tips for the Public

To prevent potential exposure, health officials recommend avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, their environment, or surfaces contaminated by animal feces, saliva, or nasal secretions. Additionally, consuming raw milk or other products from potentially infected animals should be avoided.

What’s Next?

As bird flu cases continue to emerge, local authorities remain vigilant in monitoring and containing outbreaks. Protecting both humans and birds from this highly contagious disease requires cooperation and adherence to safety guidelines.

For more updates and safety recommendations, residents are urged to follow guidance from local health departments.