As HPAI continues to spread across the United States, poultry owners are urged to review their biosecurity practices and remain on alert for clinical signs of HPAI in their flock. Multi-species operations, particularly those with both poultry and ruminants on-site, are encouraged to mitigate areas in which the spread of disease between species may be at risk.
Clinical signs can include:
- Sudden death
- Decrease in feed or water consumption
- Respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge
- Swelling around the eyes
- Open-mouth breathing
- Darkening of the comb/wattles
- Reddening of the shanks or feet
- Decreased egg production
- Lethargy
HPAI spreads through contact with bodily secretions, including feces, ocular, nasal, or oral secretions from infected birds. The virus can spread on vehicles, equipment, shoes, etc. Biosecurity is particularly important for those residents of New Jersey who keep backyard poultry flocks, which are typically smaller flocks and can include mixed bird types. Backyard flocks often have constant or frequent access to the outdoor environment by nature of their housing style, which increases the likelihood of direct encounters with wild birds or their feces. Wild birds can enter backyard flock enclosures, increasing the risk of direct contact. Potential exposure to wild birds via sharing waterers, feeders, or swimming areas is another source of disease risk to domestic poultry. Practicing good biosecurity can help prevent the spread of HPAI onto a farm.
For resources regarding biosecurity plans, please refer to the memo from Dr. Amar Patil, DVM, MVSc, Ph.D., Diplomate ACVM, Director of the Division of Animal Health/State Veterinarian: 2025 HPAI Letter to BYF Poultry Owners.
Here are other websites that contain more information and guidance:
- Department of Agriculture | Animal Health
- H5N1 – Bird Flu
- Avian Influenza | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
- Defend the Flock
HPAI is a reportable disease. If you suspect HPAI in your poultry, please alert the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400.
All New Jersey farmers are invited to attend this Farmer Resource Fair which will feature an array of agricultural service providers. In-between a light breakfast and a hearty lunch, there will be engaging presentations and opportunities to visit with service providers at their table displays. The program schedule, as well as a preliminary list of service providers who’ve confirmed their attendance, is included below.
Rutgers Cooperative Extension, in partnership with the Vegetable Growers Association of NJ and the Rutgers NJ Medical School, will host a Stop the Bleed training on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Rutgers EcoComplex located at 1200 Florence Columbus Rd, Fieldsboro, NJ 08505.
