Dead Birds in Boonsboro Test Presumptively Positive for Avian Flu, Prompting Public Awareness Alert

The Washington County Department of Health has issued a public awareness alert following reports of dead wild birds in the county that have tested presumptively positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The birds, identified as vultures found in a residential area of Boonsboro, were collected and subsequently tested, with preliminary results indicating the presence of the virus. Confirmed results are pending. While the risk to the public is considered low, residents are strongly advised against handling any dead or sick birds.

Avian influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads rapidly among bird populations. This airborne disease is transmitted through nasal and eye secretions, as well as droppings, and can move between flocks of wild birds and domestic poultry. Factors contributing to its spread include contact with infected poultry, contaminated equipment, and the clothing and footwear of individuals who come into contact with infected birds. The virus can affect various bird species, including domestic poultry like chickens, ducks, and turkeys, as well as wild birds such as ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.

Individuals who discover dead wild birds are instructed to contact the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at 1-877-463-6497. This agency is working in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources to manage the collection and disposal of affected birds. For those located outside of Maryland, the relevant contact number is 410-349-8055.

Commercial poultry producers who observe signs of avian influenza in their flocks are required to follow their company’s protocol for notification. Backyard flock owners in Maryland who suspect their birds may be infected are urged to contact the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health team. This can be done via email at md.birdflu@maryland.gov or animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov, or by calling 410-841-5810. When reporting, owners should be prepared to provide their contact details, the size of their flock, its location, and a description of their concerns. It is important that sick or dead birds are not transported to laboratories for testing or removed from the premises by owners.

Furthermore, Maryland law requires backyard flock owners to register their flocks with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. This registration is a crucial step in protecting the state’s poultry industries from diseases like HPAI. The registration process can be completed by submitting the Maryland Poultry Premises Registration Form to animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources also advises waterfowl hunters to implement safety measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. These precautions include thorough hand and clothing washing after handling game birds and designating specific clothing, boots, and tools for cleaning game that are kept separate from domestic poultry or pet birds. Additional information regarding avian influenza is available on the Maryland Department of Health website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Washington County Department of Health.

---