Pine State News

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), is advising the public to take precautions following confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds in York and Cumberland Counties. The virus has been detected in Canada geese, red-tailed hawks, and a great horned owl collected from Kennebunk, Kittery, Ogunquit, South Berwick, South Portland, and York.

Avian influenza is a contagious virus that spreads among birds through direct contact with infected poultry or wild birds. It can also spread via contaminated equipment or clothing. Although no cases have been found in domestic flocks since March 2024, recent findings in wild birds indicate the virus persists. The Maine CDC assesses the risk to human health as low.

Officials report HPAI cases in domesticated poultry across four New England states recently. Wild water birds such as ducks and geese are typical carriers of avian flu viruses which can quickly affect domestic poultry like chickens and guinea hens. As a precautionary measure, flock owners are urged to implement strict protective measures.

"People with close or prolonged, unprotected exposures to infected birds or other animals...are at greater risk of infection," notes guidance from health officials.

The DACF emphasizes maintaining strong biosecurity practices for both commercial and backyard flock owners as wild bird migration continues.

For more information on Avian Influenza: maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/wildlife/living-with-wildlife/diseases/avian-influenza.html

For updates on HPAI in Maine: maine.gov/dacf/hpai