Routine testing of poultry in Shenandoah County has found a form of avian influenza (AI) in a commercial flock of turkeys. The US Department of Agriculture confirms the turkeys have a low pathogenic H5 strain of AI.
No turkeys in the infected flock ever left the farm or were sold for human consumption.
Low pathogenic avian influenza H5 is NOT the strain of AI that cased bird flu and human illness and death in Europe, Asia and Africa. It does not increase the likelihood of H5N1 here in Virginia or in the U.S. or the likelihood of an influenza pandemic.
No human cases of low pathogenic avian influenza have been associated with the recent findings in Shenandoah County.
Human cases of low pathogenic avian influenza in general have rarely been identified. Infections in humans may result from contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. Poultry workers should follow the guidance of their operators and state and federal agriculture officials which include highly protective guidelines for individuals handling AI outbreaks.
Turkey is safe to eat as long as routine safety guidelines are followed.
AI continues to be a public health concern closely monitored by international, national, state and local health organizations. No cases of H5N1 have been reported in Virginia or the U.S. While there have been past reports of low pathogenic avian influenza in Virginia, no serious public health threats have resulted. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) continues to track any reports of low pathogenic avian influenza and respond to potential public health needs.
For more information about Avian Influenza, including low pathogenic avian influenza, as well as details on Virginia’s pandemic influenza preparedness measures, go to the VDH Avian flu page .