Division of Animal Health and Dairy Services

• Egg Grading
• Diagnostic and Testing Services

Animal Health: Biosecurity Program

• Biosecurity for Poultry Exhibitors and Exhibitions
• Biosecurity for Poultry Facilities
• Biosecurity for Live Bird Markets
• Biosecurity for Livestock Auctions
• Feed and Grain Stores Selling Poultry
  

Avian Influenza FAQ [PDF]

Additional Information:

Poultry Publications:

• Chick Brochure
• Poultryman's Handbook
• MDAR Regulation:
  330 CMR 5.00: Poultry and Eggs

Bureau of Animal Health

Avian Influenza

Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI), is a respiratory disease of poultry, turkeys, gamebirds and waterfowl. Symptoms of low pathogenic AI are typically mild and in many cases not present. The disease, however, can manifest itself through depression, decreased food consumption, respiratory signs (coughing and sneezing), and a decrease in egg production. More information on AI is available on the APHIS Website.

To help prevent the introduction of this disease into Massachusetts the Bureau of Animal Health is:

• Developing protocols for the importation of poultry into Massachusetts based on ongoing disease surveillance;
• Participating in the federal surveillance program for Live Bird Markets.
• Implementing increased biosecurity at rendering facilities and other poultry and poultry related activities;

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), has established a surveillance program for Avian Influenza and Exotic Newcastle Disease - AI/END. Diagnostic services are available through this program at no cost to the flock owner.

Flocks experiencing sudden mortality, respiratory symptoms, or swollen heads should contact the Department as soon as possible for assistance in submittal of these birds to the laboratory for necropsy at 617-626-1795.

For Additional Information:

APHIS Avian Influenza Website