The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is urging backyard bird owners to protect their flocks from Highly Pathogenic Asian Influenza.

A release said that while the current bird flu strain has not been detected in a commercial flock, the virus is prevalent in the environment and may be present in migrating birds traveling along the Atlantic Flyway.

Signs of HPAI include sudden death without clinical signs; lack of energy or appetite; decreased egg production; soft-shelled or misshapen eggs; swelling or purple discoloration of head, eyelids, comb, hocks; nasal discharge; coughing; sneezing; incoordination, and diarrhea.

Anyone involved with poultry production from the small backyard to the large commercial producer should review biosecurity activities to assure the health of their birds, the release said.

Report sick birds immediately. If your birds are sick or dying, call a local veterinarian, Cooperative Extensive service, the State Veterinarian’s Off...