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Mon, February 16, 2026
Sun, February 15, 2026
Arkansas Poultry Industry Faces Avian Flu Threat
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Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 20:35 GMT by 
KY3Locales: Arkansas, UNITED STATES
The Threat to Poultry and the Arkansas Economy
Arkansas is a major player in the United States poultry industry, consistently ranking among the top states for broiler production. A large-scale outbreak among domestic birds could have devastating economic consequences, leading to widespread culling of flocks, disruptions in the supply chain, and significant financial losses for farmers. The AGFC and the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission are working closely with poultry producers to implement biosecurity measures, including restricting access to farms, enhancing sanitation protocols, and monitoring bird health closely. These measures are aimed at preventing the virus from reaching commercial flocks, but the risk remains significant due to the ease with which the virus can be carried by wild birds.
Protecting Yourself and Arkansas's Wildlife
Public health officials emphasize that the risk of human infection with HPAI is currently low. However, they advise Arkansans to take simple precautions to minimize potential exposure. These include:
- Avoiding contact: Do not touch or handle wild birds, particularly those that appear sick or deceased. Do not approach birds displaying unusual behavior, such as lethargy, disorientation, or difficulty breathing.
- Reporting sick or dead birds: Promptly report any sightings of sick or dead birds to the AGFC at (501) 223-6745 or through their online reporting system [ https://www.agfc.com/en/wildlife-management/avian-influenza/ ]. This information is crucial for tracking the spread of the virus and implementing targeted control measures.
- Practicing good hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after spending time outdoors, especially after being in areas frequented by birds.
- Pet Owner Awareness: Keep pets away from wild birds and report any signs of illness in domestic animals to a veterinarian.
The impact on wild bird populations is also a serious concern. While some species are more susceptible than others, the virus can cause significant mortality, potentially impacting local ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation groups are working with the AGFC to monitor bird populations and assess the long-term effects of the outbreak.
What's Next?
Experts predict that the avian influenza situation will remain dynamic throughout the spring and summer months. Continued monitoring, public education, and stringent biosecurity measures are critical to mitigating the risks. The AGFC is actively conducting surveillance to identify affected areas and track the spread of the virus. Researchers are also working to better understand the virus's behavior and develop more effective strategies for controlling outbreaks. The Arkansas Department of Health continues to collaborate with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor the situation and assess the potential for human infection.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by visiting the AGFC website ([ https://www.agfc.com/ ]) and the Arkansas Department of Health website ([ https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/ ]) for the latest updates and guidance.
Read the Full KY3 Article at:
[ https://www.ky3.com/2026/02/12/arkansans-urged-avoid-contact-with-wild-birds/ ]
