Avian Influenza Detected in Domestic Flock

MA Dept of Public Health News

Published February 26th, 2026

Detected March 6th, 2026

Summary

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) announced the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a domestic flock in Dukes County. This marks the second domestic flock in Massachusetts to test positive this year. MDAR is advising poultry owners to implement strong biosecurity measures to prevent exposure.

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What changed

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) has confirmed the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a domestic flock in Dukes County, leading to the safe depopulation and disposal of the affected birds. This is the second domestic flock in Massachusetts to test positive for HPAI this year, highlighting the ongoing circulation of the virus in wild bird populations.

MDAR strongly advises both backyard and commercial poultry owners to enhance biosecurity measures, particularly by preventing domestic birds from contacting wild birds and eliminating access to standing water sources frequented by waterfowl. The agency emphasizes that allowing free-range flocks poses a substantial risk of HPAI exposure, which can be deadly. While the risk to humans is very low, prolonged close contact with sick or dead birds is the primary risk factor. The notice also provides guidance for pet owners regarding dogs and cats in affected areas and directs readers to an FAQ on Avian Flu.

What to do next

Review and enhance biosecurity measures for domestic poultry flocks.
Prevent domestic birds from contacting wild birds, especially waterfowl.
Eliminate standing water sources accessible to domestic poultry.

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Press Release

Press Release Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in a Domestic Flock

For immediate release: 2/26/2026
- Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
- Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
- Department of Public Health

Media Contact

Phu Mai, Director of Communications

Online

Email Phu Mai, Director of Communications at phu.mai@mass.gov

Dukes County — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) safely depopulated and disposed of a non-commercial backyard flock in Dukes County due to the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) today. Birds on the affected premises exhibited clinical signs consistent with HPAI and tested positive for the disease. This is the second domestic flock in Massachusetts and Dukes County to test positive for HPAI this year.

MDAR is advising backyard and commercial poultry owners to practice strong biosecurity measures to prevent domestic poultry from having contact with wild birds since the HPAI virus is continuing to circulate in the wild bird population. Eliminating standing water and preventing domestic birds from having access to ponds, streams, and wetland areas that attract wild waterfowl is of critical importance. Allowing domestic flocks to have “free range” poses substantial risk of exposure to HPAI. The consequences can be deadly.

Both wild and domesticated birds can become infected with HPAI. Waterfowl and other aquatic birds are most at risk for infection, although any bird species should be considered susceptible. Birds may be infected with HPAI without showing any signs of illness. Raptors, and wild mammals, especially those that scavenge on birds, such as foxes, can also become infected.

Dogs should be leashed and kept away from areas where wild birds congregate or where dead waterfowl have been found. Cat owners in suspected areas should consider keeping their cats indoors. Farm cats should be discouraged from consuming their prey (birds or mice).

The risk of humans contracting HPAI from infected birds is very low. Humans that are most at risk of becoming infected are individuals that have prolonged close contact with sick or dead birds.

For more information, visit the following link to access an FAQ on Avian Flu that was created by MDAR, the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health: https://www.mass.gov/lists/frequently-asked-questions-about-avian-flu

Media Contact

Phu Mai, Director of Communications

Online

Email Phu Mai, Director of Communications at phu.mai@mass.gov

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources

The Department’s mission is to cultivate a robust and equitable agricultural economy, promote a safe and resilient food system, and preserve a healthy environment for Massachusetts farmers, animals, and consumers.

Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

MassWildlife is responsible for the conservation of freshwater fish and wildlife in the Commonwealth, including endangered plants and animals. MassWildlife restores, protects, and manages land for wildlife to thrive and for people to enjoy.

Department of Public Health

DPH keeps people healthy and communities strong.

Media Contact

Phu Mai, Director of Communications

Online

Email Phu Mai, Director of Communications at phu.mai@mass.gov

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