On Dec. 20, 2023, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) announced it had confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) for the first time in Benton and Clatsop counties. The affected flocks included approximately 75 birds, including chickens, ducks, and geese.

All affected birds were deceased and did not enter the food system. There was no immediate public health concern due to the avian influenza virus detection. Avian influenza does not affect poultry meat or egg products, which remain safe to eat.