Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, is a fast-spreading and often deadly virus affecting poultry. Early detection is critical to protecting your flock and preventing the spread of this disease. Knowing the symptoms of HPAI can help you take quick action if your birds show signs of illness.
Here’s what to watch for and what to do if you suspect HPAI in your flock.
Common Symptoms of Avian Influenza in Birds
HPAI can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Some birds may show subtle signs of illness, while others may become seriously ill very quickly.
Signs of HPAI to Look For:
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Respiratory Issues – Coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge are early signs of illness.
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Swollen Head or Eyes – Swelling around the face, eyes, or neck can indicate infection.
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Darkened Comb or Wattles – A purple or dark discoloration of the comb, wattles, or legs may appear.
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Lethargy & Reduced Appetite – Birds may become unusually inactive or refuse to eat.
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Loose Droppings – Diarrhea or abnormal droppings can be a symptom of infection.
- Decreased Egg Production – Hens may stop laying or produce fewer eggs.
Since HPAI spreads rapidly, it’s essential to monitor your flock closely and take immediate action if you notice these symptoms.
What to Do If You Suspect HPAI in Your Flock
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Quarantine Sick Birds Immediately – Separate any birds showing symptoms from the rest of the flock to prevent further spread.
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Contact the Experts – Reach out to your local veterinarian, state agricultural department, or the USDA hotline at 1-866-536-7593 for guidance.
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Increase Biosecurity Measures – Clean and disinfect coops, equipment, and clothing to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Limit Flock Exposure – Avoid contact with other poultry keepers and prevent wild birds from accessing your flock’s food and water.
Because HPAI has a high mortality rate, fast action is crucial. If you suspect an outbreak, reporting it quickly can help protect other flocks in your area.
Stay Informed & Protect Your Birds
Recognizing the symptoms of HPAI early can make a difference in stopping the spread. Stay vigilant, practice good biosecurity, and monitor your birds closely.
Want to learn more about preventing HPAI and keeping your flock safe? Read our complete guide here!
Stay safe & happy chick-keeping!
5 comments
We have kept our wild bird feeders in a fenced yard where our chickens can’t go. I don’t know if this helps but it seems like a good plan
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My Pet Chicken:
Keeping wild bird feeders separate from your flock can help reduce the risk of exposure to avian flu since wild birds are potential carriers. Limiting their access to your chickens’ space is definitely a smart move. It is also very important to prevent wild birds from having access to the chicken food and water.
Pairing that with other biosecurity measures—careful handwashing, dedicated “chicken shoes,” and avoiding contact with outside poultry—can go a long way in protecting your flock. Thanks for sharing your approach, and stay safe!
Will newly purchased chicks from you have the flu vaccine already?
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My Pet Chicken:
Thank you for that question, Victoria.
Right now, this vaccine holds a conditional license, meaning its use is strictly mandated by the government—primarily for large-scale egg and meat bird producers. Conditional licenses are issued in response to urgent situations but require final USDA approval before broader use, including in commercial poultry.
At this time, the vaccine is not available for small hatcheries or backyard flocks. However, if that changes in the future, we’ll carefully evaluate it with our veterinarian to ensure it aligns with our high standards for safety and effectiveness. The health and well-being of our chicks remain our top priority, and we’ll continue to monitor any new developments closely.
If you’d like to learn more about the vaccine’s approval process, you can find additional details here: Zoetis HPAI Vaccine Update .
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions—we’re happy to help!
I had a hens little over a year old. Had been laying. She started falling over and roaring around couldn’t stand. Do you have any idea what she was suffering from
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My Pet Chicken:
We’re so sorry to hear about your hen. There are many possible causes for the symptoms you described, including neurological issues, vitamin deficiencies, or illness. Since we’re not veterinarians, we can’t diagnose or provide medical advice, but if you ever experience a similar situation in the future, a necropsy could help determine the cause.
Wishing you the best with your flock!
Can this flu be spread to humans?
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My Pet Chicken:
Yes, certain strains of avian influenza (bird flu) can spread to humans, but it is rare. The virus primarily spreads among birds, especially in wild and domestic poultry populations. However, in some cases, humans can become infected through direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces.
The most concerning strains for human transmission are H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6, which have caused infections in people in the past. Most human cases have occurred in individuals with prolonged exposure to infected birds, such as poultry farmers or workers in live bird markets. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare!
To minimize the risk it is important to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds, wash hands thoroughly after handling birds, keep a clean coop and practice good biosecurity. These are safeguards that all flock keepers should be following regardless of the bird flu!
When will the medicine be available for small backyard flocks? Will it be published with a price and availability? Thank you
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My Pet Chicken:
Thank you for your question!
At this time, the vaccine is not available for small hatcheries or backyard flocks. It only holds a conditional license and is primarily for large scale egg and meat producers. However, if that changes in the future, we’ll carefully evaluate it with our veterinarian to ensure it aligns with our high standards for safety and effectiveness. The health and well-being of our chicks remain our top priority, and we’ll continue to monitor any new developments closely.
If you’d like to learn more about the vaccine’s approval process, you can find additional details here: Zoetis HPAI Vaccine Update .
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions—we’re happy to help!