The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is reminding poultry growers across the state to remain vigilant for signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu.
The reminder comes after the department confirmed the state’s first case of bird flu last month in a backyard flock in Mississippi County. While it remains the only confirmed detection in Arkansas, officials say ongoing outbreaks in other states underscore the importance of prevention and monitoring.
Avian influenza is a highly contagious virus that affects both domestic and wild birds and can cause sudden death in poultry. The department emphasized that bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans.
“The virus spreads easily through contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or materials, and even a single detection can disrupt trade and local food supply chains,” the department said in a news release.
Under Arkansas regulations, any suspected or confirmed case of avian influenza must be reported to the Department of Agriculture immediately. The department may issue quarantines, restrict poultry movement within control zones, and order depopulation and disinfection measures to prevent further spread.
The Department of Agriculture also reminded poultry growers to follow these recommended biosecurity practices:
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Wash hands and footwear before and after contact with birds.
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Restrict visitors to poultry areas.
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Limit exposure to wild birds.
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Quarantine new birds for at least two weeks before introducing them to existing flocks.
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Report sick or dead birds immediately by calling the Sick Bird Hotline at (501) 823-1746.
For more information, visit the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s website.
