Ky.gov

Avian Influenza

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​What is Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is an infectious disease caused by a group of influenza A viruses. These viruses naturally occur in wild waterfowl and shorebirds, but they can infect other wild and domestic bird species, as well as mammals, including humans. The viruses are often classified into two categories: low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) based on the severity of the disease they cause.​​

​HPAI Updates

​Updated: June 14, 2024

HPAI in Kentucky ​Wildlife

  • ​Kentucky has confirmed cases of HPAI in deceased waterfowl found in Henderson and Ballard counties, and deceased raptors found in Daviess and Bourbon counties. HPAI has also been detected in deceased raccoons in Taylor and Carter counties, and a mink in Bourbon County.
  • The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources works with several partners to monitor and prevent the spread of HPAI in wildlife, including state animal health officials, public health officials, and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).​
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​Wildlife Health Program

Wildlife Health Program Home

Wildlife Diseases​

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​​STOP THE SPREAD OF BIRD FLU​



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​​Help Keep O​ur Bird Populations Healthy

​Kentucky Fish and Wildlife asks for reports of wild birds exhibiting the following:​

  • Swimming in Circles
  • Incoordination
  • Lethargy
  • Unwillingness to fly
  • ​Head tremors
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 CALL Kentucky Fish and Wildlife at 1-800-858-1549 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Eastern) on weekdays.
​​​​​ ​​​CONTACT your area’s regional biologist.
​​​​​ SUBMIT observations online via our reporting application​.
​​​​​ Found an injured bird? Contact a permitted wildlife rehabilitator.​
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Report Sick or Dead Poultry
​and Livestock 
​Report any unusual signs of illness or increased mortality in your flock or livestock to a local veterinarian, cooperative extension service, the State Veterinarian, or call the USDA at 1-866-536-7593.​​

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What is Kentucky Fish and Wildlife doing about HPAI?

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife's responsibilities and actions include:

  • ​Monitoring wild bird and mammal populations for mortality events and submitting received specimens for HPAI testing.
  • Testing a random sample of live and hunter-harvested waterfowl for HPAI.
  • Collaborating with partners to minimize​ the transmission of HPAI in wildlife, safeguarding the health of ​wildlife, domestic animals, and people​.​
  • Providing biosecurity guidance to hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, wildlife rehabilitators, and outdoor recreationists on reducing the transmission of HPAI to safeguard the health of wildlife, domestic animals, and people.​
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​HPAI in Wildlife: Understanding the Situation in the U.S.

  • ​HPAI is widespread in wild birds throughout the U.S. and has also been detected in a variety of wild mammal species​ in multiple​ states.
  • HPAI is causing outbreaks in commercial and backyard flocks, as well as dairy cows.
  • According to the CDC, there have been four reported cases of HPAI in people​ in the U.S., three following exposure to infected dairy cows, and one following exposure to infected poultry. The risk of infection to the public remains low.

Disease Information

​​​What are the symptoms of avian influenza?

​LPAI viruses may cause mild respiratory illness, including coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. LPAI typically presents mild symptoms, and many are asymptomatic (the infected animal doesn't show signs of illness). HPAI viruses can cause respiratory illness, swimming in circles, incoordination, droopy wings, lethargy, unwillingness to fly, and head tremors. HPAI viruses are severe, causing high mortality in chickens, turkeys, and ducks.

While domestic poultry may experience high mortality rates from HPAI infection, symptoms vary among wild birds. Certain species of waterfowl may show no signs of disease, unlike raptors, shorebirds, and scavengers, which have reported high mortality rates, potentially impacting population levels.

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How is avian influenza s​pread?

Infected birds spread influenza through saliva, mucus, and feces. Domestic birds can be exposed to the virus from contaminated clothing, boots, and equipment, as well as from wild birds or their feces.

While the risk to human health posed by avian influenza is low, people can become infected with avian influenza if they inhale it or if it gets into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth.


​How is avian influenza diagnosed?

Avian influenza is diagnosed through swabs from a sick or dead bird. Whole fresh carcasses may be necropsied by the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Health Program to determine the cause of death and collect additional samples for further testing. Delays in collecting the carcass decrease Kentucky Fish and Wildlife’s ability to recover detectable virus due to decomposition.​


How is avian influenza treated?

There is no treatment for avian influenza in wild birds. Only supportive care options are available and birds will often succumb to the disease. There's no readily available treatment for avian influenza in domestic birds. Euthanizing birds and properly disposing of their remains is currently the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease in domestic flocks.


Does avian influenza pose a risk to people or other animals?

Current Situation
  • ​HPAI is widespread in wild birds worldwide and has been causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows.
  • There have been confirmed detections of HPAI in within domestic cats and goats.
  • A variety of wild mammals have been infected with  HPAI in areas across the U.S.
  • According to the CDC, there have been four reported cases​ of human infections with HPAI in the U.S. - one following an exposure to infected poultry, three following exposure to infected dairy cows. The CDC states that the threat of HPAI to public health continues to be low. To date, there are no reported cases of person-to-person transmission of the virus.

While avian influenza viruses typically infect and spread among wild migratory water birds and domestic poultry, there are cases of some avian flu viruses infecting and spreading to other animals. This includes wild mammals that have presumably eaten birds or poultry that may be infected with avian flu, or that have come into contact with the saliva, mucous, and feces of infected birds.

According to the CDC, the risk to human health posed by HPAI is low. Human infections with avian influenza occur if a person inhales the virus or the virus gets into a person's eyes, nose, or mouth. When handled and cooked properly, meat and eggs harvested from wild or domestic birds do not present a food safety risk. Milk that has been pasteurized is safe to consume. ​ Learn more about avian influenza infections in humans.

For questions about HPAI in domestic poultry or livestock, please refer to the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) or the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.​​

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​Surveillance and Management

The USDA, along with state wildlife and animal health officials across the country, work together to monitor and track avian influenza outbreaks as part of the National Avian Influenza Surveillance Plan​.

Surveillance for avian influenza viruses in wild bird populations can provide an early warning to commercial producers and farmers to help prevent domestic exposure. However, biosecurity protocols to protect poultry or livestock from the disease should be enforced year-round, even if there has not been a detection of the disease in wild birds or other wildlife.


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​​​​​​​​​​​​Health and Safety: Guidance and Resources​

While it's not possible to prevent cases of avian influenza in wild birds, there are steps that can be taken to prevent the spread of the disease while safeguarding the health of wildlife, domestic animals, and people.​


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Hunters

The risk to human health posed by HPAI continues to be low. Meat from harvested wild birds does not present a food safety risk when handled or cooked properly. Hunters are encouraged to follow routine precautions when handling wild game:

Avoid Sick or Dead Wildlife

  • ​Do not harvest, handle, or consume wild birds that look unhealthy or were found dead.
  • Keep hunting dogs away from sick or dead wildlife.
  • Do not feed hunting dogs waterfowl carcasses.
  • Report sick or dead wildlife to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.
Practice Good Hygiene
  • Wear disposable gloves and consider wearing eye protection when handling birds and other game. 
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling birds or any materials contaminated with bird droppings. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
  • Clothes and shoes worn out in the field should not be worn around pet bids, backyard flocks, or livestock. Have dedicated clothes and shoes to wear around your animals that are not worn anywhere else.
  • Dress harvested waterfowl outside or in a well-ventilated area. Consider wearing a face mask to avoid inhaling the virus.​
Dispose of Carcasses Properly
  • Double bag feathers and other remains of harvested waterfowl. Tie the inner bag, take off your gloves, and leave them in the outer bag before tying it closed. Place the bag in the trash and close the lid on the receptacle. Discard the carcass in a trash can with a secure lid to prevent scavengers from getting the carcass.
Cook Wild Game Thoroughly
  • All game should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F to kill any present viruses, bacteria, or parasites that could be harmful to human health.
  • Do not feed dogs raw or undercooked meat from harvested game. Undercooked meat can contain viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can be harmful to dogs.
Clean and Disinfect Equipment
  • ​Use dedicated tools for cleaning game and avoid using them around poultry or pet birds.
  • Clean and disinfect hunting equipment, including knives and other tools, after handling birds or other wild game. Common disinfectants that are effective in killing avian flu viruses include Pine-Sol, Accel or Rescue, or a bleach solutionof 1/2 cup to one gallon of water. Learn more about cleaning and disinfecting practices.
Downloadable Resources

Outdoor Recreationists   

Outdoor recreationists, such as boaters, anglers, hikers, and campers can take certain precautions to reduce the spread of HPAI while enjoying outdoor activities.

Avoid Sick or Dead Wildlife

  • ​​Avoid direct contact with wildlife that appear unhealthy or were found dead. 
  • Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife.
  • Report sick or dead wildlife to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.
Practice Good Hygiene
  • ​Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after outdoor activities, especially if there has been any contact with birds or bird habitats. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not readily available.
  • Wear disposable gloves if handling equipment that may have come into contact with bird droppings or other potentially contaminated surfaces.
  • Clothes and shoes worn outdoors or in other areas frequented by waterfowl should not be worn around pet birds, backyard flocks, or livestock. Have dedicated clothes and shoes to wear around your animals that are not worn anywhere else.​​​​​
Avoid Feeding Wildlife

When wildlife gathers in areas abundant with food, the risk of disease transmission rises. Animals that would normally be scattered are brought together, making it easier for pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites) to spread. Refrain from feeding wildlife to help prevent disease transmission.​

Properly Dispose of Waste
When wildlife gathers where food is abundant, the risk of disease transmission increases. Dispose of waste, including food scraps, in designated bins to avoid attracting and unnaturally clustering birds and other wildlife.


Bird Watchers and Wildlife Enthusiasts​  

Bird watchers and other wildlife enthusiasts can take certain precautions to reduce the risk of spreading HPAI while pursuing their outdoor activities.

Avoid Sick or Dead Wildlife

  • ​​Avoid direct contact with wildlife that appear unhealthy or were found dead. 
  • Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife.
  • Report sick or dead wildlife to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.​

Practice Good Hygiene
  • ​Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after outdoor activities, especially if there has been any contact with birds or bird habitats. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not readily available.
  • Wear disposable gloves if handling equipment that may have come into contact with bird droppings or other potentially contaminated surfaces.
  • Clean off shoes if they came into contact with waterfowl feces. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards with soap and warm water.​
  • Clothes and shoes worn outdoors or in other areas frequented by waterfowl should not be worn around pet birds, backyard flocks, or livestock. Have dedicated clothes and shoes to wear around your animals that are not worn anywhere else.​​​​​
Avoid Feeding Wildlife

When wildlife gathers in areas abundant with food, the risk of disease transmission rises. Animals that would normally be scattered are brought together, making it easier for pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites) to spread. Refrain from feeding wildlife to help prevent disease transmission.​

Properly Dispose of Waste
When wildlife gathers where food is abundant, the risk of disease transmission increases. Dispose of waste, including food scraps, in designated bins to avoid attracting and unnaturally clustering birds and other wildlife.

 

Wildlife Rehabilitators 

Wildlife rehabilitators play a crucial role in caring for sick or injured wildlife, including wildlife that may potentially carry HPAI. The following are health and safety precautions that wildlife rahabilitators shold consider to protect themselves and the animals in their care.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • ​Wear appropriate PPE such as gloves, face masks, and goggles when handling birds or other wildlife suspected of carrying avian influenza.
  • Use disposable gloves and change them frequently, especialyl between handling different animals or between tasks.
Hand Hygiene
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling animals, as well as after removing gloves.
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
Preventative Measures
  • Implement biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of HPAI among animals in rehabilitation facilities.
  • Quarantine new arrivals to monitor for signs of illness before introducing them to the general population.
  • While there is not a specific vaccine available for HPAI, wildlife rehabilitation workers should stay informed about any relevant vaccines or preventative measures ​recommended for those working closely with birds. Speak to a healthcare provider for further information.
Environmenal Hygiene
  • ​Regularly clean and disinfect cages, equipment, and surfaces using appropriate disinfectants. Common disinfectants that are effective in killing avian influenza viruses include Pine-Sol, Accel or Rescue, or a bleach solution of 1/2 cup bleach to one gallon of water. Learn more about cleaning and disinfecting practices.
  • Maintain good ventilation in indoor facilities to reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
Training and Education
  • Ensure that all staff and volunteers receive adequate training on HPAI, prevention, and response protocols. 
  • Stay updated on current guidelines and recommendations from public health authorities and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.
Monitoring for Symptoms
  • Be vigilant for any signs of illness in wildlife and people.
  • Seek medical attention promptly if any symptoms develop and inform healthcare providers about potential exposures to HPAI.
Reporting and Collaboration
  • Report any suspected cases of HPAI in birds and mammals to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.
  • Collaborate with local authorities and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife for guidance on managing potential outbreaks and safeguarding wildlife, domestic animal, and human health.

General Public​  ​

For the public, preventing transmission of HPAI involves a combination of personal hygiene practices and awareness of potential sources of infection. 

Avoid Sick or Dead Wildlife

  • ​​Avoid direct contact with wildlife that appear unhealthy or were found dead. 
  • Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife.
  • Report sick or dead wildlife to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.​

Practice Good Hygiene
  • ​Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after outdoor activities, especially if there has been any contact with birds or bird habitats. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not readily available.
  • Wear disposable gloves if handling equipment that may have come into contact with bird droppings or other potentially contaminated surfaces.
  • Clean off shoes if they came into contact with waterfowl feces. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards with soap and warm water.
  • Clothes and shoes worn outdoors or in other areas frequented by waterfowl should not be worn around pet birds, backyard flocks, or livestock. Have dedicated clothes and shoes to wear around your animals that are not worn anywhere else.​​​​​​​
Backyard Flock Owners and Livestock Producers​  

Backyard flock owners and livestock producers can take several precautions to protect their animals from HPAI and minimize the risk of transmission. Visit the following websites for more information:

  • USDA Defend the Flock
  • Kentucky Department of Agriculture Office of the State Veterinarian
  • National Poultry Improvement Program​
Report Sick or Dead Poultry and Livestock
Report any unusual signs of illness or increased mortality in your flock or livestock to a local veterinarian, cooperative extension service, the State Veterinarian, or call the USDA at 1-866-536-7593.

Avoid Sick or Dead Wildlife

  • ​​Avoid direct contact with wildlife that appear unhealthy or were found dead. 
  • Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife.
  • Report sick or dead wildlife to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.​

Practice Good Hygiene
  • ​Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after outdoor activities, especially if there has been any contact with birds or bird habitats. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not readily available.
  • Wear disposable gloves if handling equipment that may have come into contact with bird droppings or other potentially contaminated surfaces.
  • Clean off shoes if they came into contact with waterfowl feces. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards with soap and warm water.
  • Clothes and shoes worn outdoors or in other areas frequented by waterfowl should not be worn around pet birds, backyard flocks, or livestock. Have dedicated clothes and shoes to wear around your animals that are not worn anywhere else.​​​​​​​
Environmenal Hygiene and Biosecurity
  • ​Regularly clean and disinfect cages, equipment, and surfaces using appropriate disinfectants. Common disinfectants that are effective in killing avian influenza viruses include Pine-Sol, Accel or Rescue, or a bleach solution of 1/2 cup bleach to one gallon of water. Learn more about cleaning and disinfecting practices.
  • Enforce biosecurity best practices. Learn more through the USDA's Defend the Flock Program, or contact your veterinarian or local extension office for further information.​​
Downloadable Resources



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Learn More About Avian Influenza

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

USGS National Wildlife Health Center

Kentucky Department of Agriculture
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