~ A recent update on the situation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Maryland has revealed a new case in Anne Arundel County. According to the Salisbury Animal Health Laboratory, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, a backyard flock has tested presumptive positive for H5 avian influenza. Additional samples have been sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for further confirmation.

This is the second case of HPAI in Anne Arundel County this year, with the first being detected in March. The Maryland Department of Agriculture has taken immediate action by quarantining the affected premises and depopulating the birds to prevent the spread of disease. It has also been assured that none of the birds from this flock will enter the food system.

In light of this development, all updates and relevant information regarding HPAI in Maryland will be posted on www.mda.maryland.gov/avianflu. The state government is taking necessary measures to contain and control the situation.

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For those unfamiliar with HPAI, it is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that primarily affects poultry such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys. It can also spread among wild bird species through contact with infected poultry or contaminated equipment and clothing.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture urges commercial poultry producers to follow protocol by notifying their respective companies if they notice any signs of disease among their flocks. Backyard flock owners are also advised to be vigilant and report any signs of HPAI by emailing md.birdflu@maryland.gov or animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov or calling 410-841-5810. It is essential to provide contact information, flock size, location, and concerns when reporting.

Furthermore, backyard flock owners are required by law to register their flocks with the Maryland Department of Agriculture as a precautionary measure against diseases like HPAI. To register, owners can complete the Maryland Poultry Premises Registration Form and submit it via email or mail.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reassured the public that the current risk of H5N1 bird flu to the general population remains low. However, individuals with job- or recreation-related exposures to infected animals are at an increased risk, especially without appropriate personal protective equipment. The CDC also provides additional information for workers exposed to H5N1 bird flu.

In addition, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is urging waterfowl hunters to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of HPAI. This includes washing hands and clothes after handling game and using dedicated clothing, boots, and tools for cleaning game that are not used around domestic poultry or pet birds. If anyone comes across a dead wild bird, they are advised to call USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at 1-877-463-6497 for proper collection and disposal.

The state government is working closely with relevant agencies to monitor the situation and take necessary actions to prevent further spread of HPAI in Maryland. It is crucial for all poultry owners and individuals who come in contact with birds to remain vigilant and follow proper protocols to protect themselves and their flocks from this highly contagious virus.

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