First 2025 case of bird flu in Washington State confirmed
The first Washington State case of avian influenza, or bird flu, for 2025 has been confirmed in Franklin County.
The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) says a commercial farm there saw a large number of chicken deaths around Jan. 22.
Other birds were lethargic and showing additional signs of illness, prompting an investigation by state and federal veterinarians, according to the WSDA.
After the results were confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories Friday, state officials quarantined the affected premises to prevent the spread of disease.
All birds on the premises were humanely euthanized. WSDA says poultry products from the flock will not enter the food supply system.
There have been 54 flocks (51 domestic and three commercial) infected in Washington since 2022.
The WSDA is working with the Washington State Department of Health and local health jurisdictions to identify people exposed to infected animals to provide prevention recommendations and monitor any potential symptoms.
The first human cases of H5 avian influenza were reported in Washington state in October 2024. To date, there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission of avian influenza.
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