It’s been more than two years since avian flu was first detected in Maine and two months since the virus appeared in dairy cattle west of New England. Here’s what we know about its presence in Maine and risk to the state right now.
What is avian flu?
The respiratory virus is known scientifically as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1. Highly pathogenic means the virus is very contagious.
It affects all kinds of birds, is typically deadly and has typically spread to commercial and backyard flocks through migrating wild birds. This spring, it was detected in dairy cattle in the western United States.
Infected birds carry the virus in their saliva and mucus. It can spread quickly through a flock this way.
Symptoms in poultry include swollen heads, blue coloration of combs and wattles, lack of appetite, respiratory problems and diarrhea, with a significant drop in egg production.
Is Maine at risk?
The state’s risk of avian flu is rated moderate by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
Three outbreaks have been detected in Maine in 2024 as of May 15. All cases were in backyard flocks of 40-60 birds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported two sites in January — one in Kennebec and one in York counties — and one in March in Knox County.
No detections have been confirmed in dairy cattle in Maine or New England.
Several seals and a red fox have also been found carrying the virus in Maine.
The CDC reports it does not have sufficient data on the virus’ presence in Maine wastewater. The virus has been detected in wastewater in minimal amounts in the rest of New England.
Can people catch it?
It is possible to come down with avian flu, especially if you regularly handle poultry, but agencies say the risk is low right now. One case in Texas is the only confirmed human infection so far, and the person has recovered.
What are the symptoms in people?
Symptoms in humans are similar to a typical flu, including coughing, headaches, fever, chills, sore throat and congestion. If you’ve been exposed to avian flu and develop symptoms, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services recommends calling your doctor and the Maine CDC’s 24-hour consultation line at 1-800-821-5821.
Is milk safe to drink?
Virus remnants have been found in commercial milk, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said is not a health risk in pasteurized dairy.
The administration has found high levels of the virus in raw milk outside of Maine, and generally recommends against drinking it, but has not confirmed the risk of consuming virus particles in the milk. It believes the commercial milk supply is safe.
Raw milk and milk products are legal for state-licensed producers to sell in Maine. It is not federally legal, meaning the organization leaves regulation up to each state.
Milk production is regulated in Maine by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Department staff are analyzing federal updates and working with organizations in Maine and at the federal level, according to spokesperson Jim Britt. Updates are available on the department’s website.
What do I do if I have a sick bird?
Sick birds and unusual deaths can be reported to the state veterinarian or through this form and at the USDA’s hotline at 1-866-536-7593.
What else can I do?
Agencies recommend taking biosecurity steps around birds and livestock, such as keeping your distance from wild birds, even if they don’t look ill, and avoiding direct contact with sick poultry. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services warns against visiting other people’s flocks.
Covering your poultry’s outdoor spaces can reduce the risk they’ll come into contact with the virus from wild birds.
Separate guidance for hunters issued by the United States Department of Agriculture includes processing birds in the field when possible and using separate clothing and tools to clean them. Throw out guts and feathers in a secure place, disinfect tools and wash your hands thoroughly before touching your nose or mouth.
