NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, was found in chickens at a poultry facility in eastern New Mexico, according to the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB), in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories.
Initial testing of the facility was performed on April 10 for the presence of HPAI. Further testing was needed to confirm the presence of HPAI at the facility. All birds on the infected premises will be “depopulated,” meaning they will be euthanized.
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Highly pathogenic avian influenza occurs naturally in wild birds and is most often spread during the fall and spring migratory seasons. The virus is often deadly to domestic poultry but, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), poses a low threat to human exposure.
State-level authorities are working to inspect backyard flocks on properties near the affected poultry facility. Roosevelt County residents who raise poultry are encouraged to observe their flocks and look for the following HPAI warning signs:
Sudden death without any prior symptoms of illness
Lack of energy and appetite
A drop in egg production or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs
Swelling of the eyelids, comb, wattles, and shanks
Purple discoloration of the wattles, comb, and legs
Gasping for air (difficulty breathing)
Nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing
Twisting of the head and neck (torticollis)
Stumbling or falling down
Diarrhea
Officials did not identify the facility in New Mexico that was impacted or specify how many chickens were infected. Earlier this month a facility in Texas, located near the New Mexico state line, also detected bird flu in its chickens, according to the Associated Press. Dairy cows in New Mexico and seven other states have also been found to have bird flu.
Health officials say the U.S. food supply remains safe and stable.
To learn how to better protect poultry from HPAI, view guidelines from USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
