01/07/2026
⚠️ Important Notice for Poultry Owners ⚠️
We have had multiple confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) reported in Umatilla County. ☣️
To help protect your chickens and waterfowl, we strongly recommend:
• Keeping all poultry confined (no free-ranging at this time)
• Preventing contact with wild birds, especially waterfowl
• Providing covered food and water sources
• Practicing good biosecurity (clean footwear, equipment, and hands after handling birds)
• If you encounter a dead or visibly unwell wild bird or waterfowl, do NOT handle it. Avoid contact and report it to our clinic or Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA)
HPAI spreads easily through contact with infected birds, droppings, and contaminated surfaces. While infections in people are rare, this virus can cross species barriers and infect humans, making it important to avoid direct contact with sick or deceased birds and to use proper protective measures when caring for poultry.
If you notice signs of illness in your flock—such as sudden death, decreased egg production, lethargy, respiratory symptoms, or swelling of the head or eyes—please contact our clinic or the Oregon Department of Agriculture immediately.
Thank you for doing your part to help protect your birds, your family, and our community. 🐔🦆
