Constitution State News

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) has confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in a backyard flock in New London County. The discovery was made on January 15, 2025. The flock, consisting of chickens, ducks, and peacocks, were family pets and had been in contact with wild waterfowl.

Samples from the flock were initially tested by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL), with confirmation provided by the United States Department of Agriculture National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. H5N1 is known to be highly contagious among domestic poultry, and currently, there is no effective treatment or approved vaccine for this virus. As a precautionary measure, the infected flock has been depopulated.

Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt emphasized the importance of collaboration between state and federal partners to prevent the spread of avian influenza. "Collaboration between state and federal partners is essential in preventing the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry and safeguarding the health of our farmworkers," he stated.

Poultry owners are urged to strengthen biosecurity measures to protect their flocks from H5N1. State Veterinarian Dr. Thamus Morgan highlighted that "biosecurity is the best defense for a flock owner to protect their birds from disease."

Key biosecurity practices include keeping wild birds out of poultry areas, washing hands before entering these areas, purchasing birds from reputable sources, restricting property access, and having a written biosecurity plan.

Signs of infection include increased bird deaths, respiratory issues, diarrhea, lack of energy or appetite, reduced egg production, swelling around facial features and discoloration.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assesses that human risk remains low as there have been no human cases detected in Connecticut so far. Proper handling and cooking of poultry can eliminate bacteria and viruses.

Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani reiterated that vigilance is necessary despite low current risks: “The current risk of infection from H5N1 to residents of Connecticut still remains low...we need to remain vigilant.”

For more information or inquiries regarding media coverage on this issue:

- CT DoAg: Rebecca Eddy at Rebecca.Eddy@ct.gov

- CT DPH: Chris Boyle at Christopher.Boyle@ct.gov