Scott Robins understands the importance of preventing the spread of bird flu, which has been recently discovered in Arizona, as he washes his hands.
Robins actively maintains the cleanliness of the coops housing approximately 600 chickens at Felicia’s Farm. He ensures that the straw is kept in place and everything is properly covered. This proactive approach is part of his responsibilities as the supervisor, and it also serves as a precautionary measure in the event that the bird flu ever reaches Pima County.
Maricopa County health officials have reported the detection of bird flu in wastewater at the beginning of this month. According to the CDC, Arizona has experienced two potential cases of bird flu, where individuals have been exposed to commercial poultry in locations such as farms.
Robins stated that in the event of the bird flu reaching Pima County, the initial step would be to quarantine the affected birds and closely monitor their interactions to prevent transmission. He further emphasized that should the virus start spreading among the birds, the difficult decision of euthanizing them may have to be made.
According to Robins, they assured that they would euthanize the chickens in a humane manner. However, he added that fortunately, their farm has not encountered any cases of infection among their chickens.
According to the Pima County Health Department, there are currently no reported cases of bird flu in humans, and the risk is considered to be low. The CDC in Arizona also confirms that there have been no human cases and that exposure to the virus is typically rare.
Robins mentioned that they are taking measures to prevent the spread of the virus by halting school tours.
According to Robins, when children fall ill, they tend to spread the illness more quickly than adults. As a precautionary measure, masks are typically provided for children when they visit. Robins emphasized that this practice is already in place as a standard procedure.
The PCHD actively monitors the occurrence of bird flu and collaborates with state and federal agencies to keep track of bird flu reports. They conduct regular monitoring of both wild and domestic birds, as well as dairy farms. Recently, they have extended their monitoring efforts to include stray and domestic cats as well.
According to the CDC, there have been reports of bird flu cases in ten other states. Overall, there have been over 60 cases of bird flu in humans across the country.
According to Robins, the spread of the virus can be influenced by several factors.