First Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu Case in Texas Confirmed in Shelby County Poultry Farm

A sudden spike in bird deaths this week has led to the first confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Texas for the year, discovered in a commercial poultry flock in Shelby County.

A Deadly Outbreak Unveiled

The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the presence of H5N1 on Thursday after investigators noted a “considerable mortality” in the flock. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) both reported the findings.

Quick Response and Quarantine

The affected area has been placed under quarantine, and TAHC officials are coordinating closely with federal animal‑health authorities to contain the spread. Nearby farms are being monitored to ensure the virus does not move beyond the initial site.

Guidance for Poultry Owners

Dr. Bud Dinges, TAHC’s executive director and state veterinarian, urged flock owners to strengthen biosecurity measures. “All bird owners should consider how they can keep their flocks healthy through enhanced biosecurity practices,” he said. “Ensuring barriers between wild birds are established is critical. Watch birds closely for signs of illness and report sickness or unexpected deaths immediately.”

Human Health Considerations

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that H5N1 viruses pose a low risk to people in the United States. Nevertheless, TAHC reminded Texans that any poultry or eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F as a precautionary measure.

Practical Steps for Producers

TAHC has issued a set of clear recommendations for all Texas poultry producers:

• Monitor and report: Keep a close eye on any sudden rise in sick birds or deaths. Call TAHC at 1‑800‑550‑8242 or APHIS at 1‑866‑536‑7593.
• Maintain biosecurity: Practice strict biosecurity protocols with poultry and any other animals that interact with the flock.
• Separate domestic and wild birds: Prevent contact between domestic birds and wild birds; consider bringing birds indoors to reduce exposure.
• Limit external contact: Avoid visiting other premises with susceptible animals and wash hands before and after handling birds.

Where to Find More Information

Producers and the public can access additional resources and updates on the TAHC website.

Key Takeaways

• The first confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza case in Texas was identified in Shelby County.
• The outbreak led to a quarantine and heightened monitoring of nearby farms.
• TAHC advises enhanced biosecurity, immediate reporting of sick birds, and cooking poultry to 165°F.

The swift actions by state and federal agencies aim to contain the virus and protect both poultry producers and the public from potential health risks.