Bird Flu:

[Blondiegoldiechicks]

So on the news this morning they said that the bird flu has started around my region of the state.
How do chickens get the bird flu?
How is it contagious?
Should I keep my chickens locked in their coop so they're safe?
They are not around other chickens just my flock.
Is there a way to prevent it?
Do they catch it from wild birds?
Sorry for all these questions, I'm just concerned. They are not my food they are my pets. Of course I eat the eggs but still.

 

[SilverBirds]

Avian Flu is transmitted between direct or indirect contact. It can be indirectly given through clothing, hands, equipment, etc. Or it can be spread directly by other wild birds or domestic poultry. It is EXTREMELY contagious and almost always fatal. There is not a cure if they do get it. Symptoms include but not limited to respiratory issues such as gasping, diarrhea, swelling around the head, neck, and or eyes, discoloration of the comb, wattle, or legs, and death with a few hours-days of getting AI.

If it is very high in your area, keeping them locked up, covering the coop, and sanitizing if you ever go near wild birds or other poultry that could be infected to reduce the spread or risk on contact.

Hopefully yours do not catch it.