Hawaii Officials Urge Caution Following H5N1 Outbreak in Pet Birds
Hawaii state officials are calling for heightened vigilance after the detection of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in a flock of rescued geese and ducks at Susie’s Duck Sanctuary in Wahiawa. Established by Susan Wilkinson to rescue abandoned birds, the sanctuary was rocked by the sudden illness and death of several birds, including Hector, a cherished pet goose.
Wilkinson initially suspected pesticide poisoning but was devastated to learn that H5N1 was responsible when state veterinarians confirmed the diagnosis after testing. All birds at the sanctuary have since been euthanized to prevent further spread, leading to uncertainty about the sanctuary’s future.
The Hawaii Department of Health reported this as the first known case of HPAI in a backyard flock in the state, following recent detections of the virus in mainland U.S. dairy cows and poultry. While health officials emphasize the low risk to humans, they have urged anyone who interacted with ducks or geese at a recent pet fair in Mililani to monitor for symptoms such as sore throat or respiratory issues.
State veterinarians, led by Dr. Isaac Maeda, are investigating the source of the outbreak, suspecting potential introduction from wild birds. Enhanced surveillance testing in Oahu is underway, and the Department of Agriculture recommends poultry owners increase biosecurity measures, such as minimizing contact with wild birds.
The situation escalated into broader concerns, with neighboring Guam now banning live poultry imports from Hawaii. Despite the outbreak, some local egg farmers remain optimistic, citing rigorous biosecurity protocols.
As the community grapples with the implications of H5N1, officials reiterate the importance of vigilance and reporting unusual bird illnesses to veterinarians promptly.
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