The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has confirmed new cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in both backyard and commercial poultry flocks across the state this January. Three detections were reported in backyard flocks located in Larimer and Logan counties, while one case was found at a commercial egg-laying facility in Weld County.
All affected premises are currently under quarantine, with control areas established in Weld and Logan counties to help contain the virus.
Dr. Maggie Baldwin, Colorado State Veterinarian, stated, “The confirmation of these new HPAI cases is a reminder that the virus is actively circulating in our state. We urge all flock owners to remain highly vigilant, monitor their birds closely for any signs of illness, and, most critically, to immediately reinforce and practice strict biosecurity measures to protect their flocks.”
Details of the recent cases include:
– On January 5, CDA was notified about deaths in a mixed-species backyard flock of 16 birds in Larimer County. The presence of HPAI was confirmed by USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory on January 7.
– On January 8, increased mortality was observed in a chicken flock in Logan County. The loss totaled 55 birds. Confirmation came on January 14. An area quarantine has been put into effect, and poultry owners within this zone are being asked to report their flock status through an online self-reporting form.
– Another backyard facility in Larimer County lost 18 chickens and ducks on January 9; confirmation followed on January 14.
– In Weld County, a commercial egg-laying operation housing approximately 1.33 million chickens reported elevated mortality on January 28. The diagnosis was confirmed by USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory on January 30. This facility remains under quarantine as response efforts continue with depopulation and disposal underway.
A summary report detailing all HPAI detections is available through the CDA at ag.colorado.gov/HPAIresponse.
HPAI is known for causing severe illness and high mortality rates among poultry populations. Migrating wild birds often serve as carriers for the disease. State officials note that proactive testing and response efforts have helped slow the spread within Colorado. Since summer 2024, there have been no human cases of HPAI reported locally.
The CDA advises all livestock and poultry owners to be alert for symptoms such as sudden death, reduced egg production, decreased food or water intake, or lethargy among their animals. They emphasize that strong biosecurity practices—such as preventing contact between domestic flocks and wild birds—are essential for disease prevention. Additional guidance can be found at ag.colorado.gov/animal-health/biosecurity-101.
Timely reporting is critical when HPAI is suspected:
– Cases involving poultry or other livestock should be reported directly to the State Veterinarian’s Office; details are available on the CDA Reportable Diseases page.
– Suspected feline infections should be directed to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at 303-692-2700.
– Members of the public who encounter sick or dead wild birds are urged not to handle them without proper protective equipment and should contact their local CPW office.
Further information about avian influenza response can be accessed via the CDA’s dedicated web pages.
