Small Farms And Officials React After Mysterious Bird Illness Strikes Honolulu

Healthcare workers in protective gear in quarantine room.

Hawaii reports its first avian influenza outbreak, raising concerns about potential human exposure at a recent pet fair.

At a Glance

First case of bird flu detected in a backyard flock in Central Oahu, Hawaii
Virus strain matches that affecting dairy cows and poultry on the U.S. mainland
Hawaii Department of Health warns of potential human exposure at Mililani Pet Fair
Risk of human infection remains low, but public urged to follow safety guidelines
Hawaii may become the eighth U.S. state to report human cases of bird flu

Hawaii’s First Avian Influenza Outbreak

Federal authorities have confirmed the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Hawaii, specifically in a backyard flock in Central Oahu. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s veterinary laboratory identified the virus, which genetic analysis revealed to match strains previously found in dairy cows and domestic poultry on the U.S. mainland. This outbreak marks a significant development for the state, which had previously been free of avian influenza cases.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has taken swift action by imposing a quarantine on the affected property to prevent further spread. The outbreak has impacted up to 10 birds, including geese, ducks, and a zebra dove. HDOA has issued depopulation and cleaning orders for the property as part of its containment strategy.

Potential Human Exposure at Pet Fair

Concerns have been raised about potential human exposure to the virus after the Hawaii Department of Health warned attendees of the Mililani Pet Fair about possible contact with infected birds. Although the infected birds showed no signs of illness during the fair, health officials are taking precautionary measures to alert the public.

While the risk of human infection remains low, health officials are urging those who had contact with ducks or geese at the fair to be cautious and monitor their health closely. Symptoms of bird flu in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat, eye redness, and in severe cases, pneumonia and seizures.

National Context and Preparedness

The outbreak in Hawaii comes amid a broader national concern about avian influenza. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 52 human cases of bird flu in the United States this year, with cases reported in California, Washington, Colorado, Michigan, Missouri, Oregon, and Texas. Hawaii may potentially become the eighth state to report human cases.

“The virus detected here matches the strain that has infected dairy cows and domestic poultry on the U.S. mainland,” Hawaii Department of Agriculture stated, highlighting the interconnected nature of this health challenge.

Hawaii’s unique position in the Pacific flyway, a migratory path from the continental U.S., has long made it vulnerable to avian diseases. The state has maintained strict quarantine rules to prevent the introduction of bird diseases via air and maritime routes. State and federal agencies have been actively monitoring for bird flu since 2015, demonstrating a proactive approach to this potential threat.

Public Health Response and Recommendations

Health officials are advising anyone who develops symptoms after potential exposure to isolate themselves and contact their primary care provider. They should also call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586. For those concerned about animal health, the HDOA’s Animal Industry Division can be reached at 808-483-7102 or 808-837-8092 to report unusual illnesses in animals.

While the situation is being closely monitored, public health officials emphasize that avian influenza in humans can be treated with antiviral medications. The CDC and local health departments are prepared to respond to any changes that might increase the human health risk associated with this outbreak.