Confirmed presence of avian influenza in a non-commercial backyard flock in Orleans County

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed the presence of avian influenza, in a non-commercial backyard flock in Orleans County this week. Samples taken by officials on Monday were tested and confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. This is the third instance of avian influenza in a domestic flock in Vermont since spring of 2022 and emphasizes the ongoing need for vigilance as the disease continues to be an ongoing risk to domestic birds. Influenza in poultry does not constitute a food safety risk. Vermonters are asked to be alert for dead or sick birds and alert the USDA or Vermont authorities at 802-828-2421 or as soon as possible.