Bird Flu Detected In NJ, Killing Ducks In Backyard Flock

NEW JERSEY — State officials announced New Jersey's first confirmed bird-flu case of the year Wednesday. The disease was discovered in a non-commercial, backyard poultry flock in Monmouth County.

Officials collected and tested samples from the duck and chicken flock and detected highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The ducks experienced high mortality, and some showed neurological symptoms before succumbing to the disease.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture didn't immediately reveal where in Monmouth County the disease was detected. The New Jersey Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory tested samples. The National Veterinary Services Laboratory conducted congruent testing and confirmed the detection of the disease Tuesday.

Recent HPAI detections in birds don't present an immediate public-health concern, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. But HPAI is highly contagious and often fatal in domestic poultry species, according to the state agriculture department.

State and federal personnel are "following the appropriate response plan," according to a statement from the NJDA. The affected premises have been quarantined. Officials also implemented biosecurity measures and depopulation of poultry on the premises.

Biosecurity measures include eliminating exposure of domestic birds to wild birds, keeping a specific set of shoes and clothing for tending to poultry and minimizing the number of people who visit the birds.

The Monmouth County outbreak affected 10 birds, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.

As of Tuesday, federal officials confirmed HPAI in 319 flocks in 34 states this year — 178 commercial flocks and 141 in backyards.

Poultry and eggs' proper handling and cooking to an internal temperature at 165 degrees kills bacteria and viruses, the NJDA said.

Signs of HPAI in poultry can include the following, according to agricultural officials:

• Sudden death
• Decrease in feed or water consumption
• Respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge
• Swelling around the eyes
• Open-mouth breathing
• Darkening of the comb/wattles
• Reddening of the shanks or feet
• Decreased egg production
• Lethargy

Anyone who suspects the presence of the disease in should alert the NJDA's Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400.