Biosecurity Helps Protect Farms from Avian Influenza

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota State University Extension highlights the importance of strong biosecurity practices to protect poultry and dairy farms from highly pathogenic avian influenza. Recent detections of HPAI in poultry and dairy operations across the country show why preparation and early identification are critical for farm safety.

Spring migration of wild birds will begin soon. As birds move across regions, the risk of avian influenza spreading to farms increases. Wild birds are the main carriers of HPAI, a strain of influenza A. The virus spreads through feces and respiratory secretions and survives for long periods in cool and damp conditions. Because of this, spring and fall migration periods create a higher risk for poultry and dairy producers.

North Dakota State University Extension specialists encourage animal owners to review their farm biosecurity plans before migration increases disease threats. Strong daily practices help reduce the chance of the virus entering farms or rural properties.

“Creating and consistently following a strong biosecurity plan is the best defense poultry and dairy owners have against HPAI,” says Dr. Jake Galbreath, NDSU Extension veterinarian. “Now is the time to evaluate potential risk points on your operation and make improvements before exposure occurs.”

Experts recommend several practical steps to strengthen farm biosecurity. Farmers should limit contact between domestic animals and wild birds by housing animals when possible and removing spilled feed that may attract wildlife. Producers should change clothing, wash hands, and disinfect footwear before and after handling animals. Access to livestock areas should be limited, and unnecessary visitors should be avoided. Tools, equipment, and vehicles that travel between farms should also be cleaned and disinfected. New animals should be isolated for a period recommended by a veterinarian.

“Biosecurity is not a single action — it’s a system of daily management practices that create a clear line of separation between healthy animals and potential disease threats,” explains Mary Keena, NDSU Extension livestock environmental management specialist. “Consistency is what protects individual operations and the broader agricultural community.”

Farm owners should also watch for warning signs of illness. Poultry infected with HPAI may show sudden death, lower feed and water intake, reduced egg production, and unusual behavior. Dairy cattle may experience reduced milk production, fever, tiredness, lower appetite, and changes in milk appearance.

Other animals may also be affected. Dr. Galbreath warns that cats infected with HPAI can develop severe illness. Cat owners should avoid feeding raw meat or milk from animals that may be infected.

“Poultry and dairy products from animals that test positive for HPAI are prohibited from entering the marketplace under federal law,” says Miranda Meehan, NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist and disaster education coordinator.

Meehan adds that properly handled and cooked poultry products remain safe to eat, and pasteurization removes the virus in milk. Producers who see unusual illness or unexplained deaths should contact a veterinarian or the North Dakota State Veterinarian’s Office.

Producers who observe unusual illness or unexplained deaths in poultry or dairy animals are encouraged to contact their veterinarian or the North Dakota State Veterinarian's Office at 701-328-2655

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