Bird flu reported in neighboring states; Local poultry farmers share how they are keeping birds safe

FAIRBORN — Avian influenza, commonly known as the bird flu, has been detected in three states that border Ohio.

While no cases have been found in Ohio yet, agriculture officials are on high alert.

The virus easily spreads through bodily fluids and droppings, it can cause typical flu-like symptoms in birds and even kill them, according to the Center for Disease Control.

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In very rare cases, the virus can spread to humans which is why the Ohio Poultry Association is keeping an eye on farms closely.

“We encourage all farmers in Ohio to bring their birds inside during this time, where we are on heightened alert,” Jim Chakeres, executive vice president of the Ohio Poultry Association, said.

If a bird catches the flu, the whole flock will likely become infected, Andrew Bowman, associate professor, College of Veterinary Medicine at Ohio State University said.

Bowman said because of this, the mass amount of birds may have to be put down.

In 2015, an outbreak of the bird flu led to almost 37 million birds dying.

The United States Department of Agriculture recorded the outbreak as the most expensive animal health disaster in our country.

Local poultry farmers John and Andrea Hancock at Happy Wife Acres said they have their own way of keeping their birds safe.

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The Hancocks said they want to create less stress for their chicken, so they don’t lock them up and let them roam.

Since their chickens are pasture-raised, the Hanococks said they are stronger and healthier than commercial poultry.

But the Hancocks are still taking the virus seriously and monitoring their birds closely.

The CDC states that there is no evidence that any human cases of avian influenza have ever been acquired by eating properly cooked poultry products.

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