Maryland: Preliminary Testing Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Second Caroline County Farm

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~ On January 15, 2025, an update was released regarding the ongoing situation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Maryland. According to the Maryland Department of Agriculture, an additional commercial broiler flock in Caroline County has tested presumptive positive for H5 avian influenza.

This flock is located within the initial control area of the first positive farm in Caroline County, which was announced on January 10, 2025. The test results were confirmed at the Salisbury Animal Health Laboratory, which is part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. Further samples have been sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for final confirmation.

As a precautionary measure, the affected premises have been quarantined and all birds on the property are being depopulated to prevent the spread of disease. It has been assured that none of these birds will enter the food system.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture has also stated that all updates and relevant information regarding this HPAI situation will be posted on their website at www.mda.maryland.gov/avianflu. In case of any new cases in Caroline County, further situation updates will be issued.

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For those unfamiliar with HPAI, it is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads rapidly among birds through nasal and eye secretions as well as manure. It can easily spread from flock to flock and even to wild bird populations through contact with infected poultry, equipment, and even clothing and shoes of caretakers. This virus affects not only poultry such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys but also some wild bird species like ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.

In light of previous presumptive positive H5 test results in snow geese and two additional commercial poultry cases in Maryland, the Department continues to urge all poultry owners to remain vigilant in protecting their flocks.

In case anyone notices any signs of HPAI in their flock, commercial poultry producers are advised to follow the protocol of notifying the company they grow for. Backyard flock owners in Maryland can also report any concerns by emailing the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health team at md.birdflu@maryland.gov or animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov, or by calling 410-841-5810. It is important to note that dead or sick birds should not be taken to a lab for testing or moved off-site.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assessed that the current risk of H5N1 bird flu to the general public remains low. However, individuals with job- or recreation-related exposures to infected animals are at an increased risk, especially if they do not use appropriate personal protective equipment. More information for workers exposed to H5N1 bird flu can be found on the CDC's website.

Due to biosecurity concerns, no on-site interviews, photos, or videos will be allowed. For all media requests, please email JIC@delaware.gov.

As this situation continues to develop, it is important for all individuals involved in poultry production and care to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus. The Maryland Department of Agriculture will continue to provide updates and information as it becomes available.

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