Arizona Bird Enthusiasts on Alert as Avian Flu Outbreak Intensifies

Avian influenza (H5N1) has continued its global spread, recently reaching birds in Arizona. This development raises concerns among bird enthusiasts and the operators of backyard aviaries.

Arizona joins around ten other states currently under surveillance by federal, state, and local health officials due to confirmed cases of the virus. Nevertheless, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission observed in Arizona or elsewhere, with public risk deemed low.

Despite the low risk to humans, the virus poses a high mortality rate in birds and certain other animals. At the World Wildlife Zoo and Aquarium in Litchfield Park, five animals were reported dead after exposure to the virus. Additional cases include infected geese at a Scottsdale park and two workers at a Pinal County poultry farm, who recovered after contracting the virus from infected birds.

Health authorities are also monitoring the situation at a Flagstaff wastewater treatment facility and a backyard poultry flock in Maricopa County. They recommend that people avoid consuming raw milk sourced from areas where the virus has been detected. This caution comes amid the rising popularity of raw milk among certain groups, including those influenced by right-wing sources like Turning Point USA, which have circulated misleading claims regarding its health benefits.

Backyard flocks, along with domestic and wild animals, are particularly vulnerable to infection. In areas such as California, officials have advised residents to cease feeding wild birds to prevent large gatherings that could facilitate virus spread. If feeding continues, regular cleaning of feeders and water sources is recommended to minimize risks.

The National Audubon Society advocates for planting native flora that attracts birds while avoiding conditions that lead to congregation.

It’s critical for owners of cats, dogs, and dairy cattle to remain vigilant, as they can also contract the virus. Symptoms in domestic pets include fever, lethargy, and respiratory distress. Backyard flock owners should monitor their birds for signs such as low energy, reduced egg production, and respiratory issues.

In humans, exposure to H5N1 may result in mild to severe respiratory symptoms, or in extreme cases, multi-organ failure. The current strain, Eurasian H5N1, has proven particularly lethal for various wild birds, including bald eagles and geese, with over 80 infections recorded in Arizona thus far, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control.

Anyone spotting sick wild birds can make a report to the Arizona Game and Fish Department at 623-236-7201. For sick domestic birds, the appropriate contact is the Arizona Department of Agriculture at 602-542-4293.