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Food Animals + Infectious Diseases

  • Avian flu (also known as highly pathogenic avian Influenza or HPAI, avian influenza, or bird flu) is a viral infection caused by influenza type A viruses. It primarily affects wild birds and domestic poultry. The H5N1 strain is of particular concern because it can spread rapidly and potentially infect non-avian species, including mammals like dogs, cats, zoo animals and some wild carnivores. During outbreaks, keep pets and livestock away from wild birds and their droppings.

  • There a several viral diseases that affect pet and backyard chickens. Knowing the symptoms, treatment options, and methods of prevention is beneficial to anyone who owns chickens. The five most common viral diseases are: Marek's disease virus, lymphoid leukosis virus, avian influenza, infectious bronchitis and Newcastle disease virus.