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Bird Flu Spreads to Pet Birds in Vermont
In a concerning development, federal and state officials have confirmed the spread of bird flu to pet birds in Vermont. According to reports, the H5N1 strain was detected in a backyard flock of non-commercial birds, with multiple deaths resulting from the outbreak.
The authorities announced the incident on Thursday, stating that they had learned of the issue on December 18 after one bird died. Further testing confirmed the presence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, and subsequent investigations revealed additional fatalities within the flock of approximately two dozen birds.
As a result, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) ordered the quarantine of the affected birds, citing concerns over potential human transmission. While there have been no reported cases of humans contracting the virus from pet birds, experts warn that the risk is real.
It’s worth noting that this is not an isolated incident; similar outbreaks have been detected in other areas, including Oregon, where a cat died after consuming raw pet food contaminated with H5N1.
The recent surge in bird flu cases has also led to egg shortages across the United States, as numerous chicken farms have been forced to shut down due to the outbreak. According to recent research, refrigerated raw milk can act as a transmission route for the virus, further highlighting the need for enhanced food safety measures.
In light of these findings, experts emphasize the importance of responsible pet ownership and proper handling of animal products.
Source: gizmodo.com
