Avian influenza reported in non-poultry flock in New York

A sixth case of avian influenza was detected in a backyard flock of non-poultry birds in Suffolk County, New York. The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the case on February 19, and is working with state and federal officials to establish a quarantine radius and depopulate the flock.

The USDA has not released what kind of bird or how many have been depopulated.

As a part of their surveillance efforts, state and federal officials are working on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flock. According to the USDA, they are currently working with partners to test for the avian influenza in commercial poultry operations, live bird markets and in migratory wild bird populations.

To date, avian influenza has been reported in Indiana, Virginia, and Kentucky.

Producers should report all findings or suspicions of avian influenza to their veterinarians. Signs of avian influenza include birds dying without clinical signs; lack of energy; decreased egg production; soft-shelled or misshapen eggs; swelling or purple discoloration of the head, eyelids, comb, hocks; nasal discharge; coughing; sneezing; incoordination; and diarrhea. The USDA has a resource with images to help identify discoloration and other clinical signs.

Avian influenza does not pose a food safety concern to humans. Poultry that have been affected will not enter the food system.