Additional cases of avian influenza confirmed in Logan & Larimer Counties in Colorado
- Media Logic Radio
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Three additional cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu, were confirmed in backyard flocks in Larimer and Logan Counties by the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
Those cases come on top of a confirmed outbreak in Weld County that prompted the governor’s office to declare a disaster last week. State officials say the virus is actively circulating in Colorado.
State Veterinarian Dr. Maggie Baldwin urged flock owners to remain vigilant, closely monitor birds for signs of illness, and strictly follow biosecurity measures to prevent further spread. All affected locations are currently under quarantine, and control areas have been established in Weld and Logan counties.
The disaster declaration followed the discovery of avian flu at a commercial egg-laying operation in Weld County. Officials say there are no known infections among workers at that facility. That declaration was made on the evening of Thursday, January 29th, by Lt. Governor Primavera, while Governor Polis was attending Colorado River negotiation meetings in Washington D.C.
The declaration allows state agencies to coordinate response efforts, including disease mitigation and recovery. State health officials say their priorities include proper use of personal protective equipment, daily health screening of workers, and testing anyone who shows symptoms.
So far, there are no suspected or confirmed human cases of H5N1 avian influenza in Colorado. The last human cases were reported two years ago in Weld County and were linked to direct contact with infected animals. Officials say there was no evidence of person-to-person spread.
As of January 30th, outbreaks have been confirmed at 52 locations across 18 counties, with more than 11 million commercial chickens affected statewide.
Health officials remind Coloradans to avoid touching sick or dead birds. Anyone who must handle them should wear protective gear, including an N95 mask, eye protection, and gloves, and wash their hands thoroughly afterward.
