Valley residents raising chickens take heed: Last week, Vermont assistant state veterinarian Shelley Mehlenbacher sent out a notice warning that in the past month cases of the highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu, have been diagnosed in wild and domestic birds in Oregon and Washington state.
While no cases of avian influenza have been seen so far in the Green Mountain State, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets is working to get the information out about the disease to poultry producers, both commercial and noncommercial, and ensure they are practicing good biosecurity. More information is available on the agency's website at agriculture.vermont.gov/.
According to the state website, avian influenza is most commonly found in wild birds, but it can spread to domestic poultry. Infected birds shed the virus in their saliva, nasal discharges and droppings. Other birds can get bird flu when they have close contact with infected birds. Birds can also get bird flu from contact with surfaces (such as dirt or cages) or materials (such as water or feed) that have been contaminated with the bird flu virus.
Humans can get avian influenza, but cases have been very rare, the state website reads. Most of the people who had in the past become sick with bird flu came into close contact with sick chickens or ducks and touched them with bare hands.
Poultry affected by avian influenza will appear depressed, have ruffled feathers and are unwilling to eat. Birds may have watery diarrhea that starts off bright green and changes to white. The combs and wattles are often swollen and can turn blue. Swelling may occur around the eyes and neck. Legs may have pinpoint hemorrhages. Egg production drops and typically stops. Rare cases can affect the brain causing twisted heads, circling, or paralysis. Sudden death may occur. Infected mammals will have fever, cough and breathing difficulty; some may die. Humans who suspect their poultry have avian influenza should contact their veterinarian immediately.
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