Poultry Owners Urged to Protect Birds from Avian Influenza Virus

Jul 19, 2022

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) is reminding owners of poultry flocks and pet birds to practice biosecurity measures and report illnesses. A strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been detected throughout the U.S., including in Nevada, and can infect poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail, domestic ducks, geese, and guinea fowl) and wild birds. To mitigate impacts of the disease, it is important that bird owners quarantine and report any sick birds to the USDA at (866) 536-7593 or the NDA state veterinarian Dr. Amy Mitchell. The NDA also recommends the suspension of poultry shows, events and exhibitions to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease. View the NDA press release to learn more.

Infected poultry will not enter the food system and according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with these avian influenza detections in birds remains low. As a reminder, the proper handling and cooking of all poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 ˚F is recommended as a general food safety precaution.

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Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.