Learn about avian influenza, a serious disease concern for the poultry industry and animal health officials.

Avian influenza (AI) is a serious disease concern for the poultry industry and animal health officials. Influenza virus strains vary considerably in severity, and their pathogenicity, or ability to kill poultry, is labeled as either highly pathogenic (HP) with large mortality, or low pathogenic (LP) with little or no mortality.

In 2015-2016, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain affected poultry in over 16 Midwest states, while both HPAI and LPAI strains affected birds in each of Florida’s neighboring states in 2017. The virus responsible for these outbreaks has not been detected in Florida.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers the human risk from the current HPAI virus strains found in North America to be low, with no detected human infections.

Protecting Florida's Poultry

Poultry entering the United States from other countries must test negative for AI prior to entry. Countries having ongoing AI outbreaks are restricted from importing poultry into the United States and Florida.

To protect Florida’s poultry, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regularly monitors domestic poultry for evidence of avian influenza viruses. Samples are regularly collected from backyard flocks, show birds, commercial poultry, and live bird markets.

In the event that a serious strain of avian influenza is found, emergency measures, such as a quarantine of the premises, will be taken immediately to quickly contain the virus among exposed poultry and eradicate the disease as rapidly as possible. Florida, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is well prepared to lead such efforts to eliminate an outbreak of avian influenza.

How to Report Sick Birds

Anyone working with birds, not just veterinarians, is required to report sick birds to FDACS so incidents can be investigated. Early detection makes a difference.

Domestic Birds

Report unusual sickness or die-offs in domestic poultry to FDACS at (850) 410-0900 (during office hours) or 1-800-342-5869 (after hours) or by email at RAD@FDACS.gov.

Wild Birds

Report dead wild birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Precautionary Measures for Bird Handlers

Bird handlers should take the following precautionary measures:

• When working indoors, work in well-ventilated areas.
• When working outdoors, work upwind of birds to decrease risk of inhaling aerosols such as dust, feathers or dander.
• When possible, wear rubber or latex gloves that are disposable or can be disinfected.
• When possible, wear protective eye wear or a face shield while handling birds.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Disinfect work surfaces and equipment.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling birds.