16,000 Chickens Ordered Destroyed

The Avian Influenza Virus, a highly contagious disease commonly found in ocean birds and migratory waterfowl (more), was found in chickens at a Connecticut farm last month and has subsequently resulted in the order for destruction of 16,000 of those chickens.

The farm where the virus was found is one that raises “broilers,” chickens raised strictly for meat that are slaughtered after a mere 6-7 weeks (more info). Apparently “the disease does not pose a threat to human health,” but according to this article by the Queensland government, “an outbreak of influenza in humans was associated with an avian source in Hong Kong” in late 1997/early 1998. In addition, AIV could be absolutely devestating to the bird population if it spreads.