Avian Influenza Detected in Birds in Massachusetts

March 21, 2022: Joint Update from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Division of Animal Health and Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWidlife)

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been detected in wild birds in MASSACHUSETTS.

HPAI has been detected in either wild water birds, domestic birds, or both, along the east coast from Canada to Florida. Affected states include MA, CT, ME, NH, NY, and others. HPAI surveillance of domestic and wild birds in MA is ongoing.

Based on detections in birds in multiple locations in MA and surrounding states, HPAI appears to be prevalent in at least some species of this region's wild bird population. This means that all domestic poultry in Massachusetts may be at risk of exposure.

Waterbirds including shorebirds, gulls, and waterfowl, especially geese and dabbling ducks like Mallards, are most likely to carry the HPAI virus. Use good biosecurity to protect your flock and your facility against the HPAI virus. Keep wild waterbirds away from your flock. Flock owners and visitors may accidentally expose their flocks to HPAI through contaminated shoes, clothing, or equipment.

Out of an abundance of caution, MDAR is asking that Animal Control Officers and Animal Inspectors provide assistance in removing dead wild birds from the environment, as some of these cadavers may be infected with HPAI. 

REPORT SICK OR DEAD BIRDS:

Domestic:

MDAR Animal Health: Call 617-626-1795 or use the online Poultry Disease Reporting Form: https://www.mass.gov/forms/poultry-diseasereporting-form 

or

USDA Veterinary Services: Call 866-536-7593

Wild:

MDFG Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife): Call 508-389-6300

or

USDA Wildlife Services: Call 866-487-3297

Pelham Animal Inspector/Dog Officer: (413) 800-6280