Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas agriculture and health agencies are warning residents to steer clear of wild birds, particularly those that appear sick or are found dead, following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the state. Authorities say the virus has been confirmed in both wild birds and domestic poultry, including backyard flocks and commercial operations, raising concerns about the spread of the disease and potential risks to humans, pets, and animals.
Migrating waterfowl are considered the primary carriers of HPAI, and officials stress that even casual contact with infected birds or contaminated environments can help spread the virus. To limit transmission, residents are being advised not to handle sick or dead wild birds, nor bring them into homes, vehicles, barns, or poultry coops. Agencies note that improper handling could inadvertently introduce the virus to domestic flocks or expose people and pets to illness.
“Do not touch, move, or attempt to rescue wild birds that appear sick or are found dead,” officials emphasize. “Do not bring wild birds into your home, vehicle, barn, or coop for any reason. Keep your distance from wild birds, especially waterfowl, that appear lethargic or disoriented, and keep pets away from wild birds and carcasses.”
The public is also being encouraged to avoid areas where large numbers of wild birds congregate. Hunters and bird watchers should exercise extra caution, wearing gloves when handling birds or equipment, washing hands thoroughly afterward, and avoiding consumption of any birds that appear ill or were discovered dead. These precautions are part of a broader effort to prevent the virus from entering domestic poultry and to reduce any potential risk to human health.
Residents can report unusual wild bird activity, including concentrations of sick or dead birds, to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at agfc.com/education/avian-influenza/. Backyard or commercial poultry owners who suspect illness or deaths among their flocks are encouraged to contact the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s sick bird hotline at (501) 823-1746.
Poultry growers are urged to follow basic biosecurity measures to protect their flocks. Recommended practices include washing hands and footwear before and after contact with birds, limiting visitors to poultry areas, minimizing exposure to wild birds, and quarantining new birds for at least two weeks before introducing them to existing flocks. These steps help reduce the chance of HPAI spreading to domestic poultry, which can have serious economic and public health implications.
Although human cases of HPAI are rare, health officials advise that anyone exposed to infected birds or contaminated environments should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water and wear appropriate protective equipment if handling birds is necessary. Individuals who develop flu-like symptoms after potential exposure are urged to contact the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) Zoonotic Disease Section at (501) 280-4136 or via email at [email protected].
“ADH can coordinate appropriate testing and, if indicated, post-exposure antiviral treatment,” officials said. Residents are encouraged to contact ADH before seeking in-person medical care to prevent unnecessary exposure to others and ensure proper evaluation.
State authorities stress that public cooperation is critical in controlling the spread of HPAI. By following guidelines for avoiding contact with wild birds and practicing careful biosecurity measures, Arkansans can help safeguard domestic poultry, protect pets, and minimize risks to human health.
The advisory serves as a reminder of the ongoing vigilance needed during migration seasons, when waterfowl move across the state and the potential for virus introduction is heightened. Keeping a safe distance from wild birds, reporting suspicious activity, and maintaining strong hygiene and biosecurity practices are all essential steps in reducing the impact of HPAI on Arkansas communities.
For more information on avian influenza, reporting wild bird activity, or obtaining guidance for backyard or commercial poultry, residents can visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Arkansas Department of Agriculture websites, or contact the appropriate hotlines provided by state officials.
By following these precautions, officials hope Arkansans can enjoy outdoor spaces safely while helping to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza throughout the state.
