HELENA, Mont. – On Sept. 17, the Montana Department of Livestock (DOL) confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Ravalli County. The affected flock is a small, commercial flock of chickens. This is the second detection in Montana in 2026. The last affected flock in Montana was found in January 2026.
Migratory waterfowl are the primary source of the virus that causes HPAI. The highest risk for disease tends to be during spring and fall migration. Domestic poultry may become infected through direct contact with infected wild birds, or contact with contaminated objects, equipment or the environment. Despite the high-risk period occurring in spring and fall, cases in domestic poultry have been observed year-round throughout the country. It is also important to note that other species may become infected if exposed to large amounts of the virus. Cats and small mesocarnivores like skunks and raccoons are the most commonly reported.
DOL recommends poultry owners house birds indoors to the extent possible and use good biosecurity practices to minimize disease risk. In addition to practicing biosecurity, poultry owners should observe their flocks at least one to two times a day for any signs of illness. Most often domestic poultry will present with sudden death, but owners may also notice respiratory signs like sneezing, coughing, discolored combs, swollen eyes and lethargy.
“HPAI continues to be a risk for domestic poultry in Montana and in many other parts of the country,” said Dr. Emily Kalecyzc, assistant state veterinarian. “While only a small number of Montana flocks have been impacted, the risk to poultry is increased during wild bird migration. Whether you have a large commercial poultry operation or a small backyard flock, ongoing vigilance and increased biosecurity remains important to protect the health of poultry, domestic animals and people.”
While HPAI can be spread to humans, the risk to the general population is considered low according to the Centers for Disease Control. However, individuals in contact with potentially infected animals or contaminated objects are considered at higher risk of becoming infected. Public health officials recommend wearing gloves when handling sick or dead birds and washing hands thoroughly after contact with poultry.
HPAI is not considered a food safety concern. Existing safeguards keep our food safe and wholesome. These safeguards are why the food supply in the United States is one of the safest in the world. As a reminder, the United States Department of Agriculture recommends cooking poultry to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
DOL encourages all poultry producers to immediately report sudden onset of illness or high death loss in domestic poultry to their veterinarian or DOL at 406-444-2976. If you find sick or dead wild birds that have died from unknown causes, please contact your local Fish, Wildlife, and Parks warden, biologist or regional office, or call the FWP wildlife veterinarian at 406-577-7880.
The mission of the Montana Department of Livestock is to control and eradicate animal diseases, prevent the transmission of animal diseases to humans, and to protect the livestock industry from theft and predatory animals. For more information, visit www.liv.mt.gov.
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