SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a flock of backyard chickens and ducks in Malheur County on Wednesday, the first confirmed case in the county.

Samples from the herd were first taken to Oregon State University’s Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for testing. OVDL confirmed the presence of HPAI on November 8.

All affected birds were humanely euthanized and did not enter the food supply chain nor were they intended for the commercial food market. It is important to note that when prepared and cooked properly, HPAI will not affect meat or egg products and these foods remain safe. The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends choosing pasteurized milk and dairy products to protect your health.

According to the USDA, HPAI detections are higher in the fall and spring because wild birds that spread the virus migrate to their seasonal homes. Actions bird and livestock owners can take to help stop the spread of the virus.

Biosecurity measures may include the following: 

• Preventing exposure of domestic poultry and livestock to wildlife, especially wild waterfowl
• Limiting the mixing of different types of livestock, especially poultry and pigs
• Wash your hands before and after handling your flock
• Cleaning vehicles, tools or equipment
• Limiting unnecessary visitors
• Disinfect shoes in clean foot baths
• Change clothes when in contact with birds.

Death or illness in domestic birds must be reported immediately to the ODA. You can report this by calling 503-986-4711 (Alt phone 1-800-347-7028).

Please do not hesitate to contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to report wild bird deaths. Please do not collect or handle the birds; instead, call 1-866-968-2600 or email [email protected].

For more tips on protecting backyard flocks, visit ODA online at Avian Influenza or en Español at Avian Influenza-Spanish.