Hawaii Detects First Case of Avian Influenza in Domestic Flock

The Hawaii Department of Health, alongside the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, has confirmed the presence of H5N1 avian influenza in a backyard flock of birds in Central Oahu. The discovery is linked to birds that were present at the Mililani Pet Fair held on November 2, 2024. The departments clarified that the avian flu was detected in the flock after the event, and the risk of transmission to humans remains low.

Officials reported that none of the birds exhibited symptoms at the time of the pet fair. Despite the timing, precautions are being taken to monitor and manage the potential health implications for attendees of the event.

The Hawaii Department of Health has advised individuals who attended the pet fair and had direct contact with ducks or geese to be vigilant for symptoms associated with avian flu. Symptoms can manifest within two to five days of exposure but may take up to ten days to appear. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and conjunctivitis. Treatment with antiviral medications is available and effective.

Concerned individuals are encouraged to isolate at home and consult their primary healthcare providers if symptoms develop. They are also urged to contact the Department of Health’s Disease Reporting Line for guidance.

In related developments, the United States Department of Agriculture has confirmed this case of bird flu as the first in a domestic flock in Hawaii since the outbreak began in 2022. The Hawaii State Laboratories Division tested the samples, with confirmation by the USDA‘s National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. This detection corresponds with the strain impacting poultry and dairy herds across the U.S. mainland.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has highlighted the minimal public health risk posed by this and similar detections, emphasizing preventive measures such as avoiding contact with sick or dead animals.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Animal Industry Division is tasked with receiving reports of unusual illnesses in poultry and livestock, aiming to control and mitigate the spread of infections. The public is encouraged to report any such occurrences during business hours at 808-483-7102 or during non-business hours and holidays at 808-837-8092.