Evergreen Reporter

Washington state has confirmed its first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) for 2025 in a commercial flock. The suspected virus was reported by a large operation in Franklin County to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) last week.

The virus, known for spreading rapidly in poultry environments, causes severe illness or death among birds. On January 22, the farm reported high numbers of sudden chicken deaths and other signs of illness, leading to an investigation by state and federal veterinarians.

Samples were sent to the Washington Animal Disease and Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL), which reported "non-negative" results. These were later confirmed as positive by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) on January 24.

State officials have quarantined the affected premises to prevent further spread. They emphasize that rapid euthanasia of all birds on-site is crucial for containment, and poultry products from this flock will not enter the food supply.

Dr. Dana Dobbs, WSDA Avian Health Program Lead and Commercial Flock Liaison, highlights that since 2022, 54 flocks have been infected. She urges bird owners to maintain strict biosecurity measures, such as sheltering free-ranging birds and minimizing exposure to wild waterfowl.

Following a commercial detection like this one, animal health officials monitor flocks within a 10-kilometer radius for HPAI symptoms. Commercial flocks must closely monitor health with regular testing and obtain permits from WSDA for moving products in or out of the zone. Domestic flock owners are encouraged to self-report any bird illnesses or deaths using WSDA's online tool.

In terms of human health concerns, WSDA collaborates with the Washington State Department of Health to identify people exposed to infected animals. They provide prevention recommendations and conduct symptom monitoring when necessary. Although human cases were first reported in October 2024 in Washington state, there is no evidence yet of person-to-person transmission.

The public is advised to report sudden bird deaths or illnesses using WSDA’s online tool or hotline at 1-800-606-3056. Dead birds should be double-bagged and stored on ice until sampling can occur. Wild sick or dead animals should not be handled but reported through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s online tool.