HELENA — The Montana Department of Livestock confirmed the 25th detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), often called bird flu, in Flathead County.
The viral disease is spread through migratory waterfowl; typically, infections in domestic poultry follow fall and spring migrations.
In this case, the birds were part of a backyard flock, and sick and dead waterfowl were found in nearby wetlands.
This outbreak is linked to wild birds, but additional testing must be done to confirm.
Signs of an infected bird include swollen eyes, a drop in egg production or drinking and eating, and discoloration, but the most common sign is the sudden death of the bird.
The last time the disease was detected in Montana was in January.
You can find more information about human health and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza here.
