~ A recent update on the avian influenza situation in Maryland has revealed that a backyard flock in Anne Arundel County has tested presumptive positive for H5 avian influenza. The Frederick Animal Health Laboratory, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, conducted the initial testing and additional samples have been sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for further confirmation.

This marks the third case of H5 avian influenza in Anne Arundel County in 2025. As a precautionary measure, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has quarantined the affected premises and is currently depopulating the birds on the property to prevent the spread of disease. It has been assured that none of these birds will enter the food system.

All updates and relevant information regarding this situation can be found on www.mda.maryland.gov/avianflu. This is not the first time Anne Arundel County has been affected by HPAI, as there was a previous detection in March.

Avian influenza is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads quickly among birds through nasal and eye secretions and manure. It can also be transmitted from flock to flock through contact with infected poultry, equipment, and even clothing and shoes of caretakers. This virus primarily affects poultry such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys, but can also impact some wild bird species like ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.

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In light of this recent development, commercial poultry producers are advised to follow protocol by notifying their respective companies if they notice any signs of disease among their flocks. Backyard flock owners in Maryland are also urged to take necessary precautions by contacting the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health team at md.birdflu@maryland.gov or animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov or by calling 410-841-5810 if they observe any symptoms of HPAI in their flocks. It is important to note that dead or sick birds should not be taken to a lab for testing or moved off-site.

Furthermore, backyard flock owners are required by law to register their flocks with the Maryland Department of Agriculture in order to protect the state's poultry industries from diseases like HPAI. This can be done by completing the Maryland Poultry Premises Registration Form and emailing it to animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov or mailing it to 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reassured the public that the current risk of H5N1 bird flu remains low. However, individuals who have 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.

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In addition, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is urging waterfowl hunters to take necessary precautions such as 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 as they are coordinating collection and disposal efforts with the Department of Natural Resources.

As this situation continues to develop, it is important for all individuals involved in poultry production or hunting activities in Maryland to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of HPAI. The Maryland Department of Agriculture will continue to provide updates and guidance as needed.

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