Avian Flu nearby

Dear bird owners,

We wanted to bring to your attention that there was recently an outbreak of Avian Flu in Bristol County confirmed by necropsy.  The outbreak resulted in the death of a number of birds.  Below are some tips and information from Mass Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR).

Tips to protect flocks from avian influenza:

1) Prevent wild birds, especially waterfowl, from having any access to your flock, flock equipment and supplies, vehicles, or pasture area. Consider keeping poultry indoors.

2)Avoid unnecessary movement of poultry and equipment between locations. Do not share equipment with other bird owners without thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting between uses. HPAI contaminated materials can be a source of infection.

3)New birds and birds returning home from exhibitions should be completely isolated for at least one month prior to being added into the flock.

4)Limit the number of people that have access to your flock, wear clean boots and coveralls when working with poultry.

5)Install foot dips immediately outside poultry areas to prevent tracking potentially infected material from the ground into the pen. 

6)Create a written plan to be followed by anyone caring for your flock, a good biosecurity plan evaluates and mitigates potential risks to better keep your flock safe and healthy.

USDA websites for tips in protecting flocks from introduction of disease:

healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov

poultrybiosecurity.org

Centers for Disease Control Avian Influenza Updates - www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/avian-in-birds.htmy