Hawaii reports its first-ever case of bird flu, detected in a backyard flock in Central Oahu, raising concerns about the virus’s spread to the island state.
At a Glance
- First case of avian flu confirmed in a backyard flock in Central Oahu, Hawaii
- Virus matches strain affecting dairy cows and poultry on the U.S. mainland
- Property quarantined; birds to be depopulated to prevent further spread
- Low risk of transmission to humans; public advised to avoid sick or dead birds
- State and federal agencies have been monitoring for bird flu since 2015
First Avian Flu Case Detected in Hawaii
In a significant development for Hawaii’s agricultural sector, the first case of bird flu has been confirmed in Honolulu County. The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) veterinary laboratory reported the detection in a backyard flock in Central Oahu, marking a new chapter in the state’s battle against animal diseases. This discovery has prompted immediate action from state authorities to contain the outbreak and protect both avian and human populations.
The Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) is actively investigating the property where the virus was detected through wastewater surveillance. This proactive approach highlights the state’s vigilance in monitoring potential threats to public health and agriculture. The affected property, which houses up to 10 birds including geese, ducks, and a zebra dove, has been placed under strict quarantine to prevent the spread of the virus.
BIRD FLU CASE | The first confirmed Avian Flu case in Hawaii was found in a backyard flock of birds in Central Oahu. https://t.co/5UvvHuAXsC
— Island News (@KITV4) November 16, 2024
Strain Identification and Implications
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has confirmed that the virus strain detected in Oahu matches the one affecting dairy cows and domestic poultry on the U.S. mainland. This finding raises questions about how the virus made its way to Hawaii, given the state’s strict quarantine rules designed to prevent the introduction of bird diseases via air and maritime routes.
The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus causes severe illness and high mortality in birds. As a result, the affected birds on the property will be humanely depopulated to prevent further spread. This measure, while drastic, is necessary to protect the state’s poultry industry and wild bird populations.
Human Health Concerns and Precautions
While the risk of transmission to humans remains low, health officials are taking no chances. The public is advised to avoid contact with sick or dead birds as a precautionary measure. The HDOA has stated that human cases on the U.S. mainland have been reported almost exclusively among workers in close contact with infected animals.
Symptoms in humans typically include conjunctivitis and upper respiratory issues. However, it’s important to note that no sustained human-to-human transmission has been reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the public health risk remains low, despite reporting the 52nd human case of bird flu in 2024.
Collaborative Efforts and Ongoing Monitoring
State and federal agencies have been vigilant in monitoring for bird flu since 2015. The cooperation between various departments underscores the seriousness with which authorities are approaching this situation. HDOA Veterinarian Isaac Maeda highlighted the collaborative efforts in place to address the outbreak. “In addition to [the Health Department], HDOA has been collaborating closely with animal disease authorities from the U.S. Department of Agriculture who are familiar with avian influenza and its impact on wild and captive bird populations.”
The detection of bird flu in Hawaii serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing animal diseases and the importance of robust surveillance systems. As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to protecting both animal and human health while minimizing the impact on the state’s agricultural sector.
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First Case of Bird Flu Detected
