The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock in Bossier Parish. This marks the first reported case of HPAI in domestic birds in Louisiana since the current outbreak began in February 2022.
The flock owner reported increased bird mortality, prompting an investigation by LDAF and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, confirmed the presence of HPAI following initial testing at the LDAF Diagnostic Lab. To prevent further spread, the affected birds have been depopulated.
“This incident of avian influenza has been successfully contained through close collaboration with state and federal animal health officials,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, DVM. “There are no reports of the disease affecting Louisiana’s commercial poultry industry, and we remain committed to protecting the health of our state’s livestock and poultry.”
Avian Influenza and Its Impact
Avian influenza is an airborne virus that spreads rapidly among poultry through respiratory secretions, manure, and contaminated surfaces, including equipment and caretaker clothing. While highly contagious among birds, avian influenza does not impact the safety of poultry meat or eggs when properly handled and cooked.
Biosecurity Measures Encouraged
Officials urge all poultry owners, from backyard hobbyists to commercial producers, to implement strict biosecurity measures to safeguard their flocks. Recommendations include:
- Limit and monitor farm access: Restrict entry to essential workers and vehicles only.
- Disinfect thoroughly: Sanitize equipment, vehicles, and footwear that come into contact with birds.
- Avoid wild bird exposure: Keep flocks away from wild or migratory birds, especially waterfowl.
- Monitor for illness: Isolate sick animals and contact a veterinarian immediately.
- Reduce travel: Avoid visiting other poultry farms or unnecessary off-farm travel.
Additional resources, including biosecurity toolkits and checklists, can be found at APHIS’ Defend the Flock Resource Center at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.
Report Unusual Bird Illness or Deaths
Poultry owners in Louisiana are encouraged to report any unusual bird deaths or illness:
- USDA Hotline: 1-866-536-7593
- LDAF Diagnostic Lab: 1-318-927-3441
About Avian Influenza
Avian influenza (AI) is caused by influenza type A viruses and is often spread by free-flying wild birds such as ducks, geese, and raptors. These viruses are classified based on their hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) proteins, with different combinations leading to varying strains. AI is further categorized by its pathogenicity—low pathogenicity strains cause mild illness, while high pathogenicity (HPAI) strains can lead to severe disease and high mortality rates in poultry.
Ongoing Monitoring
While this case in Bossier Parish is isolated, the LDAF emphasizes vigilance in monitoring poultry health statewide. Producers are urged to remain proactive in protecting their flocks, as HPAI can have significant economic and operational consequences.
For more information about avian influenza and biosecurity measures, visit the USDA’s resource center or contact local agriculture authorities.