WHAT IS AVIAN INFLUENZA?
A highly contagious viral disease affecting poultry and wild birds.
It can be:
HPAI (Highly Pathogenic):
causes severe illness and high mortality.
LPAI (Low Pathogenic): mild or no symptoms, but some strains can evolve into HPAI.
Wild birds help spread the virus during migration.
CAN HUMANS GET INFECTED?
Humans may get infection from sick birds. There is no sustainable human to human transmission of the infection.
WAYS OF TRANSMISSION
Early detection will prevent wide spread of the disease, will save
many animals and disease can be more effectively controlled.
The most important ways of transmission are:
• Direct contact with infected birds.
• Contaminated water, feed, tools, vehicles, clothing, footwear.
• Wild birds shedding the virus in droppings or secretions.
• The virus survives for weeks in cold, wet conditions.
WHAT ARE THE CLINICAL SIGNS OF THE DISEASE?
HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOUR ANIMALS?
After infection, clinical signs vary:
• Sudden death (up to 100% in chickens and turkeys). Ducks and geese are more resistant and often don't show clinical signs.
• Loss of appetite.
• Coughing, nasal discharge, swollen head.
• Purple discoloration of the wattles, comb and legs.
• Drop in egg production.
• Nervous signs: tremors, twisted neck, uncoordinated movement.
• Weakness or severe depression.
• Buy poultry only from certified sources with valid health certificates.
• Keep poultry in enclosed areas with netting to prevent contact with wild birds.
• Cover outdoor pens; use wire mesh with holes < 2 cm.
• Provide clean, protected drinking water (no rainwater, ponds, etc.).
• Store feed in closed, rodent-proof spaces.
• Clean and disinfect facilities regularly.
• Dispose of manure properly and keep it out of reach of animals.
• Use only your own tools and equipment.
• Limit access to visitors and vehicles.
• Wear dedicated clothes and shoes on the farm—do not use them elsewhere.