Avian influenza confirmed in birds on Central Oahu property

State officials announced today that avian influenza has been detected in various backyard bird flocks on central Oahu, marking the first confirmed detection of the virus in Hawaii.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture received reports Tuesday of at least 10 dead birds on property at the Wahiawa Wastewater Treatment Plant, where avian influenza was reported detected earlier this week, officials said. The bird carcasses examined included ducks, geese and zebra pigeons, and necropsy tests confirmed avian influenza.

Human illness due to H5N1 avian influenza is rare, and symptoms reported in humans infected in the United States have been mild, state health department officials said in a news release.

“The risk of transmission to Hawaii residents is low at this time,” state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said. “However, if you come across a sick or dead bird, livestock or wild animal, please be prudent and avoid direct contact.”

On the mainland, H5N1 infections in humans have been reported “almost exclusively among workers who have close contact with infected animals,” health officials said.

The most common symptoms of avian influenza in humans are conjunctivitis and upper respiratory symptoms such as sore throat and cough. According to the DOH, no sustained human-to-human transmission has been reported.

Officials say the Department of Health is investigating the possibility that humans were exposed to birds with the disease, and that antiviral treatments for bird flu for humans are available and should be taken as soon as symptoms begin. pointed out to be the most effective.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) causes severe disease with high mortality in affected birds.

After confirming avian influenza, agricultural authorities issued a quarantine order requiring “depopulation” of all birds on the property and disinfection of the area.

It’s unclear how the bird flu virus arrived in Hawaii, but officials said the state is on the Pacific air route for migratory birds from the mainland United States. maritime route,” according to a news release.

“In addition to DOH, HDOA is working closely with USDA animal disease officials who are familiar with avian influenza and its impact on wild and captive bird populations,” said Dr. Isaac Maeda, HDOA’s state veterinarian. ” “We would like to let you know that the owner of this property has been very cooperative and recognizes the seriousness of the situation surrounding their beloved pets.”

The public may report multiple or unusual illnesses in poultry, livestock, or other wild birds or animals to HDOA’s Animal Industry Division at 808-483-7102, Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ) or 808-837. 8092 after business hours and on holidays. Residents who believe they may have been exposed to sick birds or other wildlife should contact the Disease Outbreak Control Division Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586 for additional guidance.