Avian influenza has been found in Washington County. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have announced a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI), otherwise known as avian flu, has been detected in a multi-species backyard flock in Washington County.

This is the fifth confirmed case of avian flu in Iowa this year. Avian flu is a viral disease that affects both wild and domestic bird populations. It is often fatal to domestic birds, including chickens and turkeys.

The Centers for Disease Control continue to believe that the threat of avian flu to the general public remains low. It is still safe to eat eggs and poultry products. Consumers should take care to properly handle and cook eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

In addition, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is urging Iowa poultry producers and backyard flock owners to continue bolstering biosecurity protocols and practices to protect their flocks. If poultry producers or those with backyard birds suspect signs of H5N1 HPAI, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.