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. Please double bag these carcasses and dispose of them through the usual channels. Be sure to practice good biosecurity to avoid accidentally carrying the virus on your clothing, shoes, or hands. See MDAR’s Poultry Program Page for biosecurity resources.

Visit MDAR’s Poultry Page for updates and biosecurity resources available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/poultry-program

REOPORT sick or dead birds!