The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed a positive case of the Avian Flu in Guthrie County and a local health official gives his guidance. 

Guthrie County Health Services Director Jotham Arber says this virus normally starts from wild birds and then transfers to domesticated bird populations. He states there are a couple of things farmers can do to protect themselves and their birds. 

“Making sure you’re washing your hands, making sure that you’re not getting into the fecal matter of these birds and not roaming around in the flocks too much. Making sure that you’re wearing protective gear when you’re doing that and then making sure that you’re watching your birds so that if they do start to display signs or symptoms of (Avian) flu, or they’re sick, or you’re having birds that are dying, that you’re coordinating or communicating, I should say, with your veterinarian.”

Arber adds while the Avian Flu can transfer to humans, it is very difficult and they are currently not worried about that occurring. He encourages people to keep their chickens away from bird shows and other domestic birds. Arber says some of those symptoms can be Tremors, Twisted necks and Paralyzed wings.