**First Case of Avian Flu Confirmed in Jackson County Backyard Flock**

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock of geese and chickens in Jackson County, marking the first instance of the virus in the area. According to the USDA, the spread of HPAI tends to escalate during fall and spring due to the migratory patterns of wild birds carrying the virus.

Since May 2022, HPAI has affected three commercial poultry flocks and 38 backyard flocks across Oregon. On October 30, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory identified HPAI in a pig from a Crook County farm, which had been in contact with infected chickens and ducks. Consequently, 70 birds and five pigs on that farm were euthanized to prevent further spread.

In response to this recent detection, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has quarantined the affected Jackson County farm. A joint team from ODA and USDA has since euthanized all the poultry present on the property. The ODA assures the public that properly prepared and cooked poultry products remain safe for consumption despite the HPAI outbreak.

To combat the virus, the ODA recommends biosecurity measures for bird and livestock owners. These include preventing domestic animals' exposure to wildlife, especially wild waterfowl, avoiding the mixing of different livestock species, and maintaining stringent hygiene practices such as washing hands, cleaning equipment, and changing clothes after contact with birds.

The ODA urges immediate reporting of any death or illness among domestic birds. For wild birds' health concerns, contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Further information on protecting backyard flocks can be found on the ODA's Avian Influenza webpage.