Avian Influenza

Key messaging

Avian influenza (AI) poses a serious risk to the poultry industry. Since it now can impact human health we should remove that. It was written before human cases happened in the U.S. The key to prevention lies in strong biosecurity practices to protect flocks. Bird owners should monitor for symptoms such as purple discoloration on wattles, combs and legs, swelling around the head, nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, sudden death and green diarrhea. If symptoms are observed, report immediately to the Georgia Department of Agriculture via their avian influenza hotline. Preventative measures include restricting flock exposure to wild birds, using dedicated footwear for poultry areas and limiting visitors. Resources such as flyers and FAQs on biosecurity and prevention are available from the University of Georgia and federal agencies to support poultry owners in protecting their birds.

UGA Extension avian influenza website: https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/animal-production/poultry-eggs/avian-flu.html

Sample post captions

Use the hashtag: #UGAExtension #EmergencyPlanning #AvianInfluenza
Tag CAES in your posts: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter/X
Tag UGA Extension in your posts: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

Facebook

Biosecurity can save your flock! 🐓 Keeping wild birds away, limiting visitors and disinfecting your gear are simple steps to help protect your flock from #AvianInfluenza. Prevention is key to keeping Georgia poultry safe! Learn more at https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/animal-production/poultry-eggs/avian-flu.html

Instagram

Purple combs and wattles, coughing or sudden deaths in your flock? These could be signs of #AvianFlu. 🐔  If you spot symptoms, report them right away at 770-766-6850. Taking action now can protect your flock and others in Georgia. Find resources and more at the #linkinbio.

LinkedIn

#AvianInfluenza prevention starts with YOU. Avian flu poses a serious threat to poultry, from backyard flocks to commercial farms. If you own poultry, be sure to limit visitor access, keep wild birds out and report symptoms so that we can protect Georgia’s poultry industry. Explore our resource library here: https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/animal-production/poultry-eggs/avian-flu.html

Twitter/X

#AvianInfluenza is a serious risk for all poultry. Strong biosecurity is the best defense, but if you see symptoms like swelling, nasal discharge and lethargy, be sure to report to GA’s Avian Influenza Hotline at 770-766-6850! Get more resources here: https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/animal-production/poultry-eggs/avian-flu.html

Digital Assets

Resources

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Questions

Please contact Jo McLaughlin at jo.mclaughlin@uga.edu with any questions.