Mississippi County Faces Avian Flu Threat, Chicken Owners Urged to Take Precautions
BLYTHEVILLE, AR - A highly contagious avian flu strain has been detected in Mississippi County, prompting local officials to advise chicken owners to bolster biosecurity measures to protect their flocks. A 60-bird flock was “depopulated” on October 10 after a positive test result,according to reports.
Avian flu can be devastating to poultry, with Cornell University reporting mortality rates of 75% to 100% in infected chickens and turkeys. The risk of transmission is currently elevated due to ongoing migratory patterns of waterfowl.
“We’re in the Mississippi flyway, so I liken it to you’re more likely to have a wreck if there’s a lot more cars on the highway,” explained Maleigha Cook, a county extension agent with the Craighead County Extension Service. ”So, it’s the same concept.Right now, flock management is extremely important.” cook also noted the approaching rainy season increases the potential for contamination, stating, “It takes one gram of fecal matter from an infected bird to upset about a million birds.”
Local chicken owners are already responding to the threat. Keith Beeson, who owns 17 chickens, isolated birds that recently participated in a show after noticing one exhibiting coughing symptoms.”We’re just monitoring it. Hopefully, it’ll get on the mend, nothing too crazy. Just trying to be as careful as possible,” Beeson said.
The Craighead County Extension Service recommends several preventative measures, including designating footwear solely for use in poultry areas and limiting access to flocks. Poultry specialists are available through the extension service to assist owners.
