LATAH COUNTY, Idaho — The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has confirmed 200 cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) from a backyard poultry producer in Latah County.
HPAI or bird flu is highly contagious and can cause high death rates among domestic and wild birds. Signs of bird flu in domestic poultry include:
sudden deathdecreased appetite and activitybreathing difficultydark combs and wattles
The 200 cases confirmed in Latah County is the highest number of reported cases in one location in Idaho since Sept. 2022.
The Idaho AG Department recommends poultry owners to reinforce biosecurity measures for their flocks and prevent wild waterfowl from interacting with domestic birds.
Bird Flu has been persistent in the migratory wild waterfowl since the 2022 outbreak. This has created a higher risk for domestic birds to be exposed.
HPAI is transmitted through close contact (mucous) of animals or by fecal matter. The virus can be carried on objects such as:
toolsvehiclesclothesboots, which can transfer the virus from one location to another
It is rare for humans to be infected but some symptoms include conjunctivitis, fever, lethargy, aches, coughing, or diarrhea. Officials say that the highest risk humans have to contract this is by being in direct contact with domestic birds.
For more information about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, go to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website.
