MARION COUNTY — On June 30, the Indiana State Board of Animal Health reported that a hobby/non-poultry flock in Marion County tested positive for the H5 avian influenza virus.
The hobby flock included a goose and a chicken.
They were tested after two wild birds in the area tested positive for HPAI.
As a result, local flocks in the surrounding areas need to be tested to ensure the virus has not spread.
BOAH staff said they will be reaching out to poultry owners within the surveillance zone to schedule testing as part of required area surveillance.
The BOAH report listed nine commercial flocks in surrounding areas, but all their control areas have been lifted. They are cleared to restock poultry at the owners’ discretion.
Wild bird surveillance is also working to monitor conditions of non-flock environments. They have sampled nearly 300 wild bird species in the area. So far positive tests have come back from two bald eagles, two red-tailed hawks, a redhead duck, two great-horned owls and a double-crested cormorant.
The wild bird species most likely to carry HPAI are waterbirds and raptors which do not typically visit bird feeders.
The BOAH advises that hobby poultry owners should be aware of the signs of avian influenza and report illness and/or death to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline: 866-536-7593.
The signs of avian influenza include:
- sudden death without clinical signs
- lack of energy or appetite
- decreased egg production
- soft-shelled or misshapen eggs
- swelling or purple discoloration of head eyelids, comb and hocks
- nasal discharge
- coughing
- sneezing
- lack of coordination
- diarrhea
Avian influenza does not present a food safety risk for people and poultry and eggs are safe to eat. Officials are not aware of any public health significance with this virus and no human cases have been reported.
-
Whitestown’s proposed water utility sale: What residents need to know
Town leaders are considering selling Whitestown’s water utility to Citizens Energy Group. It's a move town officials say could bring lower rates and more reliable service, but would shift control.
Caitlin Clark set to return for Indiana on Wednesday after missing 5 games
Caitlin Clark expects to play Wednesday when the Indiana Fever host the Golden State Valkyries after missing the past five games with a left groin injury.
Indiana author's new book explores pathological demand avoidance (PDA)
A new children's book written by an author and neurologist from Indiana explores the love and connection between a mother and her son while navigating emotional challenges.
Trees, tutors and road work: Indy's $27 million quality of life investment
Councilors approved the $27 million spring fiscal neighborhood funding package during Monday night's meeting. More than half of it is allocated for the Department of Public Works.
