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Severity 5/5viralContagious reportable

Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Also known as: Bird Flu, HPAI, AI

Highly pathogenic avian influenza is a reportable disease that can wipe out a flock in 48 hours. Dark combs, swollen heads, and sudden death are red flags. Report immediately.

AI illustration of Avian Influenza (HPAI)
AI illustration of Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Mix of AI illustrations and anonymized real cases shared by community keepers. Visual severity varies by bird, age, and stage.

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Symptoms

  • Sudden death
  • Dark or purple comb
  • Swollen head
  • Gasping / open mouth breathing
  • Twisted neck / star gazing
  • Greenish watery diarrhea
  • Drop in egg production

Treatment

There is no treatment. Call your state vet or USDA APHIS at the first suspicion (1-866-536-7593 in the US). Do not move birds, eggs, or equipment off the property. Federal teams will guide depopulation and cleaning.

Prevention

Keep your flock away from wild waterfowl. Cover runs near ponds or migration paths. Disinfect boots and tools. Quarantine any bird returning from shows or sales for 30 days. Watch outbreak alerts in your county.

Sources