USDA Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Backyard Flock in Kansas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a non-commercial backyard mixed species flock (poultry) in Franklin County, Kansas. Samples from the flock were tested at the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and confirmed at the USDA–APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. The Kansas Department of Agriculture is working closely with USDA–APHIS on a joint incident response. KDA officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the property will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Anyone involved with poultry production from the small backyard chicken owner to the large commercial producer should review their biosecurity activities to assure the health of their birds. Find guidance on biosecurity on the KDA Division of Animal Health webpage at agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza. More biosecurity resources as well as updates on the current HPAI status nationwide can be found on the APHIS website at:
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-diseaseinformation/avian/avian-influenza/2022-hpai.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, turkeys and other birds and can cause severe illness and/or sudden death in infected birds. Attentively monitor your birds for symptoms of HPAI which include:coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of respiratory distress; lack of energy
and appetite; decreased water consumption; decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled,misshapen eggs; incoordination; and diarrhea. Avian influenza can also cause sudden death
in birds even if they aren’t showing other symptoms.
Relationships Matter
Developmental relationships are the roots of young people’s success. They are essential for all young people, in every community. When young people experience these relationships in their families, schools, programs, and communities, they are more likely to be resilient in the face of challenges and grow up to thrive.
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