The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) and USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a Park County backyard poultry flock. Samples from the flock were tested at the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories in Fort Collins, Colorado, and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories  in Ames, Iowa. The affected premises is under quarantine, which is standard procedure to prevent further exposure.  

Migratory waterfowl are the primary source of HPAI infection of backyard poultry. As wild bird populations travel through Wyoming during migratory season it is common to see an increase in HPAI  cases. The current HPAI detection in Park County is the third case of HPAI in Wyoming backyard poultry this migratory season. 

Wild waterfowl can be infected with HPAI and appear healthy, while spreading HPAI through feces, saliva and respiratory secretions. WLSB veterinarians have observed that domestic poultry living near bodies of water, including irrigation canals, ponds and rivers, are at increased risk of exposure. 

“Improving your flock biosecurity helps keeps disease out,” explains Dr. Rose Digianantonio, Assistant  State Veterinarian. “The best way to keep your poultry safe is to limit direct contact with wild birds, outside people, and equipment. This includes keeping poultry in secure housing with a roof, wearing  dedicated footwear when caring for your birds, and keeping pests away from poultry areas, to name a few actionable items.”

To learn more about biosecurity, visit healthybirds.info or aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/defend-the-flock. 

Dr. Digianantonio urges poultry owners to monitor the health of their birds.

“There are multiple symptoms of HPAI,” she said. “We often see sudden death, but other signs include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, decreased appetite, decreased egg production, incoordination, and diarrhea.”

If these symptoms are observed in your birds, or you have increased mortality in your flock, immediately contact your veterinarian or WLSB, 307-777-7515. 

The U.S. Center for Disease Control considers HPAI a low risk to human health. However, it is  recommended to avoid contact with sick or dead poultry and wild birds. If contact occurs, wash your hands and change your clothing as soon as possible.  

Sick or dead wild birds may be reported to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) by calling  307-745-5865 or reporting online. You can also report to your nearest WGFD office.