Montana sees first bird flu infections since April, officials adapting response

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases resurfaced in Montana’s domestic birds this October, ending the summertime break in cases as the outbreak continues into its 18th month and state officials adjust their response.

Last week in Glacier County, a poultry flock intended for sale and consumption was confirmed to have bird flu by Montana officials. Per federal guidelines, officials killed the flock’s some 50,300 birds to prevent the virus from spreading.

The same week a backyard flock in Flathead County tested positive for HPAI and eight birds were culled. On Tuesday evening, another backyard flock in Park County was confirmed to have bird flu, the Montana Department of Livestock said.