Avian Influenza was confirmed in one non-commercial backyard flock (non-poultry) in Connecticut. The Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, part of UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources tested the birds in cooperation with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

Surveillance and testing are ongoing in Connecticut to quickly identify and contain any future cases. The Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) conducts all tests at the laboratory in Storrs and informs the state veterinarian. Connecticut is home to over five million poultry consisting of backyard and commercial flocks that could be affected by the disease outbreak.

Preventative Actions

What should I do if I think a bird has Avian Influenza?

Avian Influenza symptoms include coughing and sneezing, fewer or misshapen eggs, depression, and decreased feed and water consumption. Bird owners must report any Avian Influenza symptoms to the State Veterinarian at 860-713-2505 or ctstate.vet@ct.gov. Testing for commercial and non-commercial flocks is available at no cost to avian owners through CVMDL – all submissions must go through the State Veterinarian.

I found a dead bird in the wild. What should I do?

Report wild bird deaths to the State Veterinarian (860-713-2505 or ctstate.vet@ct.gov) at the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.

Should I stop feeding wild birds?

Yes. Stop feeding all wild birds until further notice.

Should I keep my birds inside?

Yes, consider keeping your birds indoors. This is the recommendation from the Commissioner of Agriculture to help avoid contact with migratory wild birds. At this time, we do not know how long they will recommend you coop your flock. Visit the Connecticut Department Of Agriculture information page on Avian Influenza. If you have further questions or if your birds start to exhibit signs please call the CT Department of Agriculture at 860-713-2505 or by email at CTSTATE.VET@ct.gov

Is Avian Influenza a public health concern?

Not at this time.

Is our food safe from Avian Influenza?

Yes, food safety regulations keep our food supply safe from Avian Influenza. Cooking poultry and eggs to 165 degrees Fahrenheit kills all viruses and bacteria.