H5N1 Avian Flu Confirmed in Mississippi Chicken Flock: Authorities Ramp Up Measures
The highly contagious H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed in a commercial chicken flock in Greene County, Mississippi, according to the Mississippi Board of Animal Health (MBAH). The infected flock was quarantined and depopulated under the supervision of the state veterinarian to prevent further spread of the virus. Authorities emphasized that no birds from the affected flock entered the food supply chain.
This marks the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Mississippi since spring 2023. The state has intensified monitoring efforts, working closely with federal animal health officials to manage the situation.
Human Risk and Transmission
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported the first severe human case of H5N1 avian flu in the U.S., involving a patient in Louisiana exposed to infected backyard poultry. Although sporadic human infections have occurred in the past, the CDC reassures that the risk to the general public remains low.
Bird flu primarily spreads through contact with infected birds’ saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. While human-to-human transmission of this strain has not been confirmed, people are advised to exercise caution, especially when handling sick or dead birds.
Symptoms and Precautions
Symptoms of bird flu in humans include fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, conjunctivitis, muscle aches, and diarrhea. The CDC urges individuals who develop these symptoms within 10 days of exposure to contact local health authorities, isolate themselves, and seek medical testing.
To minimize risks, the CDC recommends avoiding contact with wild birds and sick or dead poultry. Proper hygiene practices, including wearing gloves and masks, can also reduce the likelihood of transmission.
Safe Food Practices
Health officials confirm that properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat. Chicken and eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, and raw milk should be avoided as it may harbor the virus.
Impact on Mississippi Poultry
The MBAH has confirmed previous avian flu outbreaks in several Mississippi counties, affecting both commercial and backyard poultry. Infected flocks often experience high mortality rates, with HPAI typically killing 95% or more of birds.
Recent testing conducted at the Mississippi Veterinary Research & Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the Greene County case. The outbreak adds to a growing tally of affected birds across the U.S., with millions impacted since 2016.
Reporting and Containment
Mississippi poultry owners are urged to monitor their flocks for symptoms of avian flu, including sudden death, reduced appetite, decreased egg production, and respiratory issues. Sick or dead birds should be reported to the MBAH, and proper biosecurity measures, such as separating domestic poultry from wild birds, are essential to preventing further outbreaks.
Avian Flu in Wild Birds
Wild birds across Mississippi have also tested positive for H5N1, including species such as bald eagles, mallards, and Canada geese. The virus spreads through migration and can expose domestic poultry to infection.
Authorities stress vigilance and encourage poultry producers and hobbyists to remain alert, report any unusual bird deaths, and practice stringent hygiene protocols to curb the spread of this highly pathogenic virus.