Contributed Article/Courtesy ADA
PHOENIX– Poultry at a second commercial farm located in Maricopa County has tested positive for Avian Influenza. When the poultry began showing clinical signs consistent with avian influenza on May 21, 2025, samples from the location were submitted to the Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (AZVDL) for preliminary determination and then to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for confirmation, which was received on May 27.
Eggs produced after the onset of clinical signs of illness have not entered the food supply, and there have been no signs of disease in humans. Consumers in Arizona and nationwide can remain confident in the safety and quality of eggs and egg products. The Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) has collaborated with the USDA, Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, and Maricopa County Department of Public Health to ensure a prompt and effective response to addressing this animal disease emergency.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk to the general public is considered low, with individuals who are directly involved in the daily care of birds being most at risk of exposure. Information regarding protective actions for workers and the monitoring of avian influenza can be found on the CDC’s website, which is updated regularly.
The affected poultry farm has been placed under quarantine on the recommendation of the Director of the AZDA and the AZDA State Veterinarian. Enhanced biosecurity measures are in place, and efforts are underway to eliminate the virus. All applicable sanitation responses have been quickly implemented. Our dedicated and experienced team continues to closely monitor the situation to ensure that consumer protection is always maintained.
Sick Bird Hotline: If you see signs of illness in your poultry, report them immediately to the USDA at 1-866-536-7593. You can also contact your local Cooperative Extension office, a local veterinarian, or your State Veterinarian. For wild bird illness, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
