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Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a serious disease and requires rapid response because it is highly contagious and fatal to poultry. The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food works with federal and industry partners to quickly mobilize a response to any HPAI findings and prevent further spread of the disease.


2022 Detections: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is now Infecting Birds in Utah

Click here to view the infected areas within the state of Utah.

UDAF confirmed the first diagnosis of HPAI in a small backyard flock in Utah county on Friday, April 15, 2022. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been spreading across the United States resulting in high losses in the poultry industry. Avian Influenza 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 flocks to 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

If your birds are experiencing any of these symptoms,
please contact the state veterinarian’s office immediately at statevet@utah.gov



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Prevent the Spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza:

UDAF is requesting the public’s help to prepare for an expected increase in HPAI cases the fall/winter season of 2022-2023. All domestic bird owners, including backyard chicken flocks, ducks, geese, turkeys, game birds, etc. should strengthen their biosecurity practices. Birds should be kept inside enclosures to avoid contact with migratory birds. Flocks should not have shared water, feed, or grazing sources with wild birds or access to wild bird habitats. Please see the resource below to ensure you are practicing safe biosecurity.

For more information including a nationwide map, click here.

Biosecurity Resources:


.For public outreach about HPAI or press information, contact Bailee Woolstenhulme @ (801) 982-2203.