Over 9,000 turkeys tested positive for 'bird flu' will not affect Thanksgiving, state says

Turkeys in Wayne County texted positive for High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI), according to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.  

HPAI is commonly referred to as "bird flu," according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

A turkey breeding operation's positive sample was first identified by the N.C. Department of Ag's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab in Raleigh. This case is the first in commercial poultry in the state since January 2025. Prior to this, the state had 14 commercial flocks and 12 backyard flocks impacted by avian influenza. 

This latest case in Wayne County impacts 9,500 turkeys.

This specific strain of HPAI is considered a low risk to people, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. However, it is highly contagious to other birds, including commercial and backyard flocks. 

This virus is not considered a food safety threats, and infected birds do not enter the food supply. According to State Veterinarian Mike Martin, this case of HPAI should not impact the availability of turkeys for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. 

“In recent months, cases of HPAI have increased across the country,” said Martin. “With HPAI in the wild bird population and in migratory flyways, commercial operators and backyard flock owners have remained on heightened watch for any signs of the virus in their flocks. Under HPAI protocols, we will be actively testing other flocks within the 10- kilometer zone in collaboration with our federal and industry partners.” 

Commercial operations and backyard flock owners should continue to follow strict biosecurity measures.

If your birds are sick or dying, report it right away to your local veterinarian, the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Veterinary Division at (919) 707-3250, or the N.C. Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System at (919) 733-3986.