Third Bird Flu Case Of 2025 Reported In Anne Arundel County Backyard Flock

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – A backyard poultry flock in Anne Arundel County tested presumptive positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5) on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, according to the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

State officials confirmed the case following tests at the Frederick Animal Health Laboratory, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. Additional samples were sent to the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory for confirmation. This marks the third positive backyard flock in the county this year in Anne Arundel County.

The affected premises have been placed under quarantine, and all birds on the property are being depopulated to prevent further spread of the virus. Authorities emphasized that none of the birds from the flock will enter the food supply.

Avian influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus among birds, spreading through nasal and eye secretions, manure, and contact with infected poultry, equipment, wild birds, or caretakers’ clothing and footwear. It can infect domestic species such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys, as well as wild birds including shorebirds, geese, and raptors.

Backyard flock owners are reminded they must register their premises with the Maryland Department of Agriculture, which aids in disease tracking and response efforts. Anyone noticing signs of illness or elevated mortality among their birds should contact the department’s Animal Health team by email or phone—not by transporting birds to testing sites.

Although the risk to the general public remains low, those in close contact with potentially infected birds—such as poultry workers and hobbyists—should take appropriate precautions. Hunters and individuals handling wild waterfowl are urged to disinfect clothing, footwear, and tools after handling game and to report any dead wild birds to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

For more information, visit the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s avian influenza page.

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