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Whatcom County Webpage
Posted on: November 20, 2024
Avian Influenza Monitoring Underway in Whatcom County
A backyard chicken flock in Whatcom County has tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
The affected flock is a mixed-species group of approximately 20 birds, including chickens, turkeys, and ducks. As part of the response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is depopulating the remaining birds to prevent the spread of the disease. Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) have contacted the flock owner to provide guidance and support during this process.
As a precautionary measure, people with known contact with avian influenza-infected birds or other animals are being contacted by public health officials to monitor for the development of symptoms and initiate testing if indicated.
While the risk of bird flu transmission to humans remains low among the general public, people with close contact with infected animals, such as hobbyists, agriculture workers, and hunters, may be at higher risk. Staying informed, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment if in contact with animals, and getting vaccinated against seasonal flu are important preventive measures. If you own backyard birds, reduce your poultry’s exposure to wild animals and other birds to protect your flock from avian influenza.
We recognize the growing concerns about avian influenza, also known as bird flu, particularly with the H5N1 strain. WCHCS has been closely monitoring the spread of H5N1 bird flu since it was first detected in poultry in Washington in 2022. As of November 19, 2024, there are confirmed human cases of H5N1 in Washington and British Columbia but no evidence of person-to-person spread. At this time there are no confirmed human cases of H5N1 in Whatcom County.
Seasonal flu and bird flu are caused by different subtypes of influenza viruses. While there is a vaccine for seasonal flu, there is currently no vaccine widely available for bird flu. Getting your seasonal flu vaccine each year is the best defense against seasonal flu and can help reduce the risk of co-infection, which occurs when someone gets both seasonal flu and bird flu simultaneously. Co-infection increases the risk that both viruses will mutate or combine and create a greater health hazard to humans.
If you are concerned about avian influenza in your flock or herd:
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https://www.whatcomcounty.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=4690
