We have a small flock of chickens. Is it safe to keep them?

Answer

Yes. In the United States there is no need at present to remove a flock of chickens because of concerns regarding avian influenza. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) monitors potential infection of poultry and poultry products by avian influenza viruses and other infectious disease agents.

Through a backyard flock biosecurity program, USDA teaches backyard and small poultry producers how to strengthen sanitary practices to prevent the introduction of avian influenza into their flocks. USDA recommends that owners of backyard flocks follow these six tips to prevent poultry disease:

• Keep your distance.
• Keep it clean.
• Don’t haul disease home.
• Don’t borrow disease from your neighbor.
• Know the warning signs of infectious bird diseases; and
• Report sick birds.

More information about how to protect your backyard birds can be found at  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/birdbiosecurity/biosecurity/basicsprotect.htm

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Last Updated: 03/21/2007