UPDATE Avian Flu Detected In Multiple Massachusetts Locations

By KENNEDY GRIFFIN

(Massachusetts) UPDATE – The Avian Flu has reached the Berkshires. While human infections are rare, it’s important to protect domestic poultry from wild birds who may carry the virus. The virus is spread through direct contact or consumption of infected birds. So far the bird flu has affected over 23 million birds in over 24 states across the U.S.

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Avian Flu has been found in multiple Massachusetts locations as well as other states on the east coast. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Division of Animal Health (MDAR)and Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game Division of fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) have released a joint statement on March 21st. 

The Avian Flu or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) “has been detected in either wild water birds, domestic birds, or both, along the east coast from Canada to Florida,” said MDAR and MassWildlife in a recent press release. Therefore, all domestic birds are at risk of exposure in Massachusetts. Keep your flocks and facilities safe by keeping wild birds away and using good protection as the HPAI virus may be found on shoes, clothing, and equipment that have been exposed. 

The Orange Board of Health asks that “if you find deceased birds on your property, please report it to the state.” Animal Control Officers and Animal Inspectors have been asked to provide assistance in the removal of dead wild birds by MDAR. 

Click here for the form to report sick or dead DOMESTIC birds or call 617-626-1795

For WILD birds, call MassWildlife at 508-389-6300 or USDA Wildlife Services at 866-487-3297