Avian Influenza confirmed in Grant County; No cases reported in Chelan or Douglas counties

EAST WENATCHEE — State and local health officials are monitoring a confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as H5N1, detected at a commercial poultry farm in Grant County, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture.

The Washington State Department of Health, Grant County Health District, and Chelan-Douglas Health District are monitoring for any illness among workers who may have been exposed. As of Friday, no human cases or person-to-person spread of avian influenza have been identified in Chelan or Douglas counties, officials said.

Most human cases of avian influenza occur after extended, close exposure to infected birds or prolonged contact with areas contaminated by the virus. Common symptoms include eye redness or irritation, respiratory symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Individuals who have been in contact with infected birds or anyone diagnosed with avian influenza are advised to monitor for symptoms for 10 days and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.

The Chelan-Douglas Health District urged residents to take preventative measures, including avoiding contact with wild or domestic birds that appear sick or dead, practicing frequent handwashing with soap and water, wearing protective gear when working with birds, and getting the seasonal flu vaccine.

CDHD said it is actively supporting regional partners by coordinating with the Grant County Health District and the Department of Health to monitor local conditions and assist with personal protective equipment requests as needed.

More information and public health updates are available at www.cdhd.wa.gov and on the district’s Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram accounts.