CaliToday (22/11/2025): The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has issued an urgent advisory following the confirmation of new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) within domestic poultry flocks across three different counties in the state.
The rapid spread confirms fears that the virus is actively circulating within Washington's bird population, posing a significant threat to agriculture and backyard poultry owners.
New Detections and Surveillance Zones
Confirmed cases of HPAI have been reported in the following areas:
Whatcom County
Snohomish County
Grays Harbor County
In response to these detections, flock owners situated within a six-mile radius of the confirmed HPAI sites have been placed into a critical surveillance zone. Owners in these zones are strongly encouraged to utilize the WSDA’s online reporting tool and interactive map to self-report any sudden changes in the health or mortality rates of their birds.
“The recent flurry of detections shows that bird flu is present across Washington. Every poultry owner, no matter where they live, should be on guard and take biosecurity seriously to protect their flocks," warned Dr. Amber Itle, a state veterinarian with the Washington State Department of Agriculture. "Keeping migrating waterfowl away from your flock is a critical protective measure.”
WSDA data indicates that backyard flocks account for the majority of domestic HPAI detections in Washington, emphasizing the vulnerability of small operations compared to larger, often more stringently controlled commercial facilities.
Critical Biosecurity Measures for Flock Owners
To combat the spread, the WSDA has reinforced a set of non-negotiable biosecurity tips aimed at safeguarding poultry:
Secure Housing: Always keep birds housed undercover or confined to covered runs to prevent contact with wild birds and contaminants.
Water Source Control: Prevent domestic flocks from accessing outdoor water sources, ponds, or lakes used by migratory waterfowl.
Species Separation: Maintain separation between different domestic species (e.g., domestic waterfowl and standard poultry) as susceptibility and shedding rates vary.
Feed Management: Store all feed in sealed containers and promptly clean up any spilled feed that could attract wild birds or rodents.
Visitor Restrictions: Strictly limit access to your coop and runs; unnecessary visitors can inadvertently track the virus onto your property.
Equipment Protocol: Avoid sharing equipment (feeders, tools, transportation cages) with other flock owners unless thoroughly disinfected.
Pest Mitigation: Implement robust strategies to mitigate wild bird, wildlife, and rodent intrusion around the flock area.
Human Health Advisory
The WSDA reminds the public that while rare, avian influenza can spread from birds to people and cause illness. Individuals who come into contact with potentially infected birds, animals, or their environments must exercise caution.
Key Precautions for Handlers:
Hygiene: Frequent and thorough handwashing is essential.
PPE: Utilize personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and face masks, when handling sick or dead birds.
Sanitization: Store shoes and other supplies used when caring for birds outside the home to avoid tracking contaminants indoors.
The aggressive response from Washington State highlights the ongoing seriousness of HPAI, demanding continuous vigilance from every poultry owner to protect animal health and prevent economic losses.