What is the recommended action when highly pathogenic avian influenza or Newcastle's disease are on the differential diagnosis list after necropsy?

• A. Tell the owner that although HPAI and ND are devastating to the poultry industry they do not infect people so they and their families do not need to worry.
• B. Suggest the owner review the biosecurity practices of the farm and ensure strict adherence to those practices until a diagnosis is made.
• C. Allow employees to shower out and go home to do chores for their backyard chickens.
• D. Call your State and Federal animal health authorities (State veterinarian and AD) and wait for their directions before there is movement off the premises. Remind the owner and employees that respiratory secretions and feces from birds may contain these viruses.

Answer: (D)

When highly pathogenic avian influenza or Newcastle disease is a likely diagnosis after necropsy, the immediate step is to contact the appropriate state and federal animal health authorities and wait for their directions before moving animals or materials off the premises. These diseases are highly contagious in birds and can pose a real risk to people who handle infected birds or contaminated materials. They are typically reportable, and officials will guide testing, quarantine, containment, and decontamination plans. Following their instructions helps prevent spread, protects workers, and ensures proper surveillance and investigation.

Telling owners that these diseases don’t affect people or letting workers go on with chores without guidance would be unsafe, and taking actions like independently tightening biosecurity or allowing movement without authorization could undermine outbreak control. The reminder that respiratory secretions and feces may contain these viruses reinforces why waiting for official directions is essential.