Delaware poultry owners face renewed biosecurity urgency as colder temperatures mark the arrival of the 2026-27 migratory bird season, heightening regional avian influenza risks.
The Delaware Department of Agriculture issued reminders to residents to tighten flock protections following the confirmation of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza at a commercial broiler farm in Worcester County, Maryland.
Avian influenza is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus spreading rapidly among birds via nasal and eye secretions, as well as manure. The virus spreads between flocks, including wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, equipment, and the footwear or clothing of caretakers.
State laboratories through the University of Delaware system conduct active surveillance and testing daily across commercial facilities, backyard operations, poultry exhibitions, and livestock auctions. Delaware regulations mandate that every location housing live poultry complete state registration to ensure health advisories reach producers quickly.
Producers and backyard owners must restrict flock access from wild waterfowl habitats, thoroughly disinfect equipment and footwear before entering enclosures, and strictly limit farm visitors. Anyone observing dead birds or unusual symptoms should contact the Delaware Poultry Health Hotline at 302-698-4507 or email [email protected] with flock details and location.
Commercial growers are instructed to follow established company reporting protocols when spotting potential disease signs. Meanwhile, the public and waterfowl hunters should avoid handling dead or sick wildlife and utilize the sick and injured wildlife reporting form provided by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.
Hunters are also encouraged to review safety guidelines outlined in the USDA APHIS hunter fact sheet, while broader graphic resources remain available through the Delaware Department of Agriculture health portal.
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