Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also referred to as H5N1, is a virus found among various species of birds. It is highly contagious among domestic poultry and has a mortality rate of nearly 100%. It can infect domestic poultry, including chickens, turkeys, quail, geese, ducks, pheasants, and guinea fowl.
The virus also infects a wide variety of other birds, including wild migratory waterfowl. Starting in 2024, HPAI has been detected in various species of mammals, likely after contact with infected wild birds.
For more general information, visit the:
United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/ai
FOOD SAFETY AND AVIAN INFLUENZA
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Avian Influenza is not transmitted by eating poultry and eggs that are properly processed and cooked. In addition to proper processing, proper handling and cooking of poultry provides protection from viruses and bacteria.
EFFORTS IN CONNECTICUT TO PREVENT AVIAN INFLUENZA
In Connecticut, three state agencies monitor for HPAI. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) monitors for incidences of HPAI in wild birds and other wild animals; the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DoAg) monitors for incidences of HPAI in domestic animals, backyard bird flocks, poultry, and livestock; the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) monitors for incidences of HPAI in humans.
DoAg conducts surveillance testing of domestic birds throughout the state. Commercial and non-commercial flock owners participate in our surveillance program. Testing of birds for Avian influenza virus is available at low or no cost through a partnership with the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) at the University of Connecticut.
Connecticut Department of Health webpage provides general information and current statistics: H5N1 Virus
RESOURCES
Poultry owners can find more information about registering a flock and other frequently asked questions at the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s webpage: https://portal.ct.gov/DOAG/Regulatory/Regulatory/Avian-Influenza-Information
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SOURCES: Connecticut Department of Agriculture; United States Department of Agriculture (USDA); United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH)
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CONTENT LAST MODIFIED: March2025