Presumptive Avian Influenza Case Confirmed in University of Hawaii Duck

State officials are urging caution after a presumptive case of avian influenza, specifically the H5 subtype of influenza A virus, was identified in a sick duck found at the University of Hawaii at Manoa today.

A student discovered the ailing duck earlier this week, prompting laboratory testing that yielded the positive result. While confirmation of the specific strain, H5N1, is pending from the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Iowa – expected within the next week or two – officials emphasize that the risk of human infection remains low. “Human infections remain rare and are primarily linked to direct animal exposure,” health officials stated in a release. This detection comes as avian influenza continues to circulate globally, recently impacting dairy cattle herds in 18 states, including California.

Hawaii experienced its first outbreak of avian influenza last November at Susie’s duck sanctuary in Wahiawa, where at least 10 birds died. A subsequent case was also confirmed in a wild duck at James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge in Kahuku, though that bird showed no symptoms. The current case highlights the potential for migratory birds to introduce diseases to the islands, a concern during the ongoing fallout season, which lasts through mid-December. Understanding avian influenza and its spread is crucial for protecting both animal and public health, as detailed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Hawaii Departments of Health, Agriculture & Biosecurity, and Land and Natural Resources are actively monitoring the situation, tracking health reports, poultry farms, and wild bird populations for any signs of further spread. Officials advise the public to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report any unusual illnesses in poultry or wild birds to the Department of Agriculture at 808-483-7100.