MOSES LAKE — The Washington State Department of Agriculture confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a large commercial poultry facility in Moses Lake, marking the first instance of avian influenza in Grant County. The announcement was made on October 10, 2025, following the initial report of sick birds that came to light Oct. 7.  

"This first detection of the season is a sobering reminder that highly pathogenic avian influenza remains a threat to all domestic poultry — large or small — statewide,” stated Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Amber Itle. "Keeping birds away from wild waterfowl, limiting access to your flock and keeping species separate are some of the best ways to reduce the risk of this devastating disease.” 

WSDA officials are now urging bird owners across Grant County to take necessary precautions to safeguard their flocks.  

As per WSDA guidelines, flocks located within a six-mile radius of the detection site will enter a surveillance zone. Bird owners in these areas are encouraged to self-report the health of their flocks using an online surveillance self-reporting tool. This measure aims to help veterinarians quickly communicate with stakeholders and share critical biosecurity tips. 

“Our surveillance system allows us to quickly reach out to poultry owners with guidance and resources to help mitigate the risk of this disease,” said Itle. 

Lexi Smith, a Public Information Officer with the Grant County Health District, spoke to concerns regarding potential human exposure.  

"While the risk to humans is still considered low, there are essential steps the community should follow to ensure safety," she said. "People who have job-related or recreational exposure to infected birds or other animals are at a higher risk of contracting the virus." 

Individuals residing in the vicinity of the identified HPAI case should avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and keep their pets, particularly cats, indoors, as they are vulnerable to avian influenza. Vendors and backyard poultry owners are particularly encouraged to maintain strict biosecurity measures to protect their animals. 

"When it comes to backyard flocks, people should keep their birds away from wild birds and be vigilant for any signs of illness," Smith said. "If you notice ill or dead wildlife, do not handle them, and don't let your dogs retrieve them. Wildlife may not always show symptoms, so avoiding contact is essential." 

WSDA also provides several biosecurity recommendations for poultry owners, including: 

• Housing birds in a secured environment or covered runs to limit wild bird access. 

• Storing any feed in sealed containers and ensuring that spilled feed is cleaned up promptly. 

• Implementing measures to separate domestic species and limiting visitors to poultry coops. 

The threats posed by wild waterfowl are emphasized in the advisory. The majority of detections of avian influenza in Washington state occur among backyard flocks, with approximately 95 percent of domestic animal detections attributed to them, according to WSDA. The significance of heightened biosecurity measures cannot be overstated, especially with hunting season on the horizon. 

According to the WSDA, if a poultry owner observes unusual clinical signs or mortality in their flocks, they should reach out to WSDA's Sick Bird Hotline at 1-800-606-3056 for guidance. 

Though the risks to human health are deemed low currently, Smith still wants to remind people to be cautious.  

"There have been reports of 70 confirmed human cases of bird flu across the United States since 2024, and one confirmed death,” she said. 

Smith said that the primary mode of transmission is from animals to humans, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission in the U.S. as of yet. 

Smith emphasized the importance of good hygiene and protective measures for people who might have exposure to potentially infected animals.  

"It's critical not just to wash your hands frequently but also to ensure that any poultry or meat products are cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F,” she said. “Avoiding raw milk is also imperative, as it poses a risk for introducing avian viruses."