Aloha State News

The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) Animal Industry Division is urging poultry operations and bird owners to enhance biosecurity measures against avian influenza. This follows low-level detections of H5 influenza in wastewater samples on Kaua‘i, as reported by the Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH). While these are not considered positive results, they suggest that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI or H5N1) might be present in the environment.

Previously, a bird sanctuary in Wahiawā on O‘ahu was affected by the virus, leading to the euthanization of about 100 birds. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also detected HPAI in a duck at a North Shore wildlife refuge. No further detections have been reported since then, but surveillance continues.

Hawai‘i was the last state to detect HPAI, likely introduced through the Pacific flyway. The detected strain is Eurasian and linked to migratory birds. Dr. Isaac Maeda, HDOA state veterinarian, advises extra precautions: “While the wastewater detections are not specific enough to confirm if it is the highly pathogenic avian influenza strain, extra precautions are advised to keep commercial and backyard flocks from comingling with wild birds.”

Information on increasing biosecurity can be found on government websites provided by HDOA and USDA. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently considers human health risk from HPAI as “low,” but recommends protective measures for those with close exposure to potentially infected environments.

Avian influenza can spread easily from wild birds like ducks and geese to poultry such as chickens and turkeys. Symptoms in birds include sudden death, lack of energy, drop in egg production, swelling of body parts, respiratory issues, among others.

To report unusual illnesses or deaths in birds or animals contact HDOA AID at 808-483-7100 or email [email protected]. Not all dead birds will be tested; details about sick or dead birds should be provided when reporting.

Besides affecting birds, HPAI can infect other animals including cattle and domestic pets. Pet owners concerned about infections should consult their veterinarians.

Resources for more information include various government websites offering guidance on preventing avian influenza.