Officials Detect New Cases of Bird Flu in Maricopa County, Arizona, Says State Health Department

Bird flu has been detected in a backyard chicken flock in Maricopa County, following a similar outbreak earlier this month, the Arizona Department of Public Health and Arizona Department of Agriculture said in a news release Monday.

The infected birds were discovered after the owner reported symptoms through the Sick Bird Hotline, state health officials said. Samples from the affected flock were sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory for analysis, which confirmed the presence of the virus on Nov. 21.

State officials have placed the affected area under quarantine and began steps to eliminate the virus, they said. The incident follows a similar outbreak earlier this month in Pinal County, where the virus was detected at a commercial poultry farm on Nov. 11, state health officials said at the time.

They emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low; however, those working directly with infected animals face a greater risk of getting sick.

Nicole Witt, Assistant Director of Preparedness at the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), stated in an email to NTD: “ADHS is collaborating with AZDA and local health departments in the response to avian influenza and will continue to monitor influenza activity in Arizona in collaboration with local health departments. While the risk to the general public remains low, workers and individuals that may be at risk for exposure to avian influenza should follow public health guidance.”

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Arizona officials urge chicken owners to report any signs of illness in their flocks immediately. The Sick Bird Hotline (1-866-536-7593) is available for reporting suspected cases. Additionally, owners can contact their local cooperative extension office, veterinarian, or the State Veterinarian for assistance.

For cases of illness in wild birds, the Arizona Game and Fish Department should be notified.