As concerns about the spread of bird flu continue to grow in the wake of ongoing outbreaks, U.S. officials have are working to keep the virus at bay in commercial poultry and dairy settings.
In a Wednesday update, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that dairy product testing had found remnants of the virus in one out of five samples but none that contained a live virus capable of transmitting the disease. As long as you consume pasteurized dairy products and cook your poultry products to a proper temperature, your mass-produced products continue to be safe, the agency said.
Reports of the virus spreading to other animals outside of birds and cows have left people on edge regardless. Only one case of the virus appearing in a person has been reported despite ongoing testing, said the CDC, and their symptoms were relieved by simple over-the-counter flu medication.
However, the current transmission status, according to the CDC, is "widespread" in wild birds and "sporadic" in poultry flocks, meaning at-home chicken enthusiasts should consider being extra vigilant when looking after their own flocks.
If you keep chickens or other birds, such as waterfowl, on your property, it is best to take some precautions. Here are some tips for keeping your casual flock happy and healthy.
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Bird flu, also called avian flu, is a contagious infection that spreads among wild birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other animal species. The virus does not usually spread to humans but sporadic infections have been reported. There are several strains all belonging to influenza A-type viruses.
The most common subtypes that may affect humans are A (H5N1), A (H7N9) and A (H9N2), according to the Cleveland Clinic. In humans, symptoms can resemble a typical flu but may advance into more serious respiratory symptoms.
In birds, avian flu is highly contagious and cases can range in severity from mild to highly deadly. Infected birds shed the viruses in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces, meaning other birds can contract the virus through contact with those fluids directly or via contact with a contaminated surface.
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The biggest risk to backyard chickens and other small domestic flocks is exposure to wild birds. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza A viruses through direct contact with infected waterfowl or poultry through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Some birds, such as ducks, can carry the virus without showing symptoms, meaning it's important to keep your domestic flock secured even if you don't believe there are any sick-looking wild birds around your property.
If you keep chickens or other birds on your property, the CDC suggests these basic precautions:
If you believe a member of your flock may be sick or may have come in contact with an infected animal or contaminated service, extra precautions are required. First, look out for these symptoms of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses:
If a member of your flock is showing these symptoms or you find dead or ill wild birds on your property, additional precautions need to be put in place to stop the spread. When interacting with sick birds:
While bird flu infections in humans are uncommon and unlikely, there are some basic precautions to keep in mind. According to the CDC:
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