Poultry HPAI
Poultry Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
HPAI is a disease that is highly contagious and often fatal in poultry and can be caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5) and A (H7) viruses. HPAI is often transmitted by wild birds to domestic poultry. Poultry and dairy cattle owners should maintain strong biosecurity plans and vigilantly watch flocks and herds for symptoms of HPAI. Poultry symptoms include high death loss among flocks, nasal discharge, decreased appetite or water consumption, and lack of coordination in birds. Dairy cattle symptoms include decreased milk production; thicker, colostrum-like milk; decrease in feed consumption; dehydration; and fever. Most dairy cattle recover within a few weeks.
ย Though the risk of HPAI to the general public is low, mild illnesses have only been reported among exposed livestock workers in other states. People who have prolonged, regular exposure to poultry or dairy cattle and exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, eye irritation, headaches, runny nose, body aches, diarrhea, or vomiting should contact their local health department. For more information on avian influenza in humans visit https://epi.utah.gov/bird-flu-
As a reminder, the pasteurization of dairy products and proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165หF is recommended as a general food safety measure.
2026 Poultry HPAI Utah Detections
| Date Confirmed | County | Facility Type | Number of Birds Affected | Quarantined/Released |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3/20/2026 | Box Elder | Backyard | 14 | Quarantined |
General Information
HPAI has been spreading across the United States resulting in high losses in the poultry industry. HPAI is a highly fatal disease in poultry that can be spread by waterfowl, which are usually asymptomatic. Waterfowl are the major source of infection at this time as they migrate across the United States.
Individuals involved in poultry production from small backyard flock owners to large commercial producers should practice strong biosecurity measures, including keeping poultry away from waterfowl, and to monitor for symptoms of HPAI, which include:
- death loss among flocks
- nasal discharge
- decreased appetite or water consumption
- and lack of coordination in birds.
- HPAI Signs of Infection
Flocks should not share water, feed, or grazing sources with wild birds or have access to wild bird habitats. Please see the resource below to ensure you are practicing safe biosecurity.
See more information, including a nationwide map.
See more information on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Dairy Cattle.
If your birds are experiencing any of these symptoms,
contact the state veterinarianโs office immediately at [email protected]