Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious, deadly disease for domestic poultry, but is not so severe in other species.
The current strain of HPAI circulating in the U.S. and worldwide (H5N1) is endemic in wild birds, causing outbreaks in poultry, wild mammals, including seals and sea lions, and domestic animals, including dairy cows.
HPAI in Oregon
A map of all active outbreak areas in Oregon as well as any active quarantine areas is available online.
- HPAI has been detected in backyard and commercial poultry flocks.
- Oregon has no confirmed HPAI cases in dairy cattle.
- On October 30, 2024, the first detection of H5N1 in swine in the United States was confirmed in Oregon.
- On November 15, 2024, Oregon Health Authority confirmed the state's first human case of HPAI.
- On December 11, 2024, Oregon Department of Agriculture announced launch of a milk testing and monitoring program.
Coordinated response plans with federal, state and local agencies are working effectively to rapidly confirm HPAI, implement quarantine restrictions, humanely euthanize affected flocks and animals, dispose of affected birds and animals, clean and eliminate the virus from affected premises, conduct surveillance, and monitor individuals exposed to infected animals.
Practice good biosecurity
Effective biosecurity practices are the best way to prevent the spread of disease.
Bird and livestock owners can take steps to help stop the spread of the virus:
- Prevent exposure of domestic poultry and livestock to wildlife, especially wild waterfowl.
- Limit the co-mingling of different species of livestock, especially poultry and pigs.
- Wash your hands before and after handling your flock.
- Clean vehicles, tools, or equipment.
- Limit unnecessary visitors.
- Sanitize shoes in clean foot baths.
- Change clothes upon contact with birds.
See tips for reducing risk for people working with or exposed to animals.
How to report and get help
- Report death or illness among domestic birds immediately to ODA. Please report by calling 503-986-4711 (Alt phone 1-800-347-7028).
- If you see sick or dead wild birds, do not collect or handle them. Report the incident directly to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 866-968-2600 or [email protected].
- 4-H families with questions about the impact of HPAI on 4-H activities should stay informed and continue biosecurity practices. Be familiar with ODA rules for livestock shows and exhibitions. Contact your local 4-H educator or Candi Bothum, 4-H statewide animal sciences program manager.
- AgriStress Helpline for Oregon is a 24/7 call or text phone line for stress events, crisis support or resource referrals. The number is 833-897-2474.
Human health and food supply
- Animals with confirmed HPAI do not enter the commercial food supply.
- There is no concern about the safety of the nation’s poultry or meat supply.
- When properly prepared and cooked, HPAI does not affect meat or egg products, and these food items remain safe.
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends choosing pasteurized milk and dairy products to protect your health and your family's health.
- There is no reason to be concerned about human illness unless there is a known exposure.
See additional resources below for more information.