Avian Flu detected in two Oklahoma counties
The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza has been found in Grady and Woodward Oklahoma counties. ODAFF was notified of the Grady County case on March 10.
Oklahoma State Veterinarian Rod Hall said the Grady County case was a backyard flock was a mix of chickens, guinea fowl and ducks. He said there was a pond nearby that was a haven for wild waterfowl, and it is believed they co-mingled with the domestic ducks and avian flu spread to the rest of the flock.
“In 9 out of the 10 backyard cases we’ve seen, the birds had some interaction with wild waterfowl at a water source,” Hall said.
Hall said the Grady County flock would be euthanized on March 12.
“We’ll have one of our inspectors visit the site to ensure the carcasses are properly disposed of,” Hall said. “We’ll monitor the cleaning and disinfecting of the poultry house, and then the facility must remain vacant for 120 days.”
There are no details on the Woodward County case at this time. ODAFF is asking poultry owners to report sick or dead birds by calling 405-522-6141.
This is a developing story.
Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].
