Avian Influenza

General Information:

Avian influenza (AI) is caused by an influenza type A virus that can infect poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks, and geese) and is carried by migratory waterfowl such as ducks, geese, and shorebirds. These viruses are classified into highly pathogenic (HPAI) and lowly pathogenic (LPAI) based on their ability to cause disease and mortality in those infected birds.

Avian Influenza Fact Sheet

Identification/Prevention of Disease:

            Please find the following links on the best way to protect your backyard flock:

Protect your Birds

Questions/Concerns:

Concerned residents both within and outside the areas affected by avian influenza are encouraged to use the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985 if they have questions. The Iowa Concern Hotline is available 24 hours a day. All calls are free and confidential, and the operators are willing to assist wherever possible. 

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach operates the hotline and is partnering with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Iowa Department of Health, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department, and Egg Industry Council to provide up-to-date information to Iowans about the disease. 

Testing Information:

Testing Schedule

Sample Collection Guidelines