Washington has confirmed its first bird-flu detection of 2026 at a commercial poultry facility, in Pierce County, the state Department of Agriculture announced Nov. 5.
The facility is under quarantine, and eggs from affected birds will be destroyed rather than enter the food supply, according to the joint announcement from WSDA and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.
Health agencies are monitoring workers who were exposed to infected birds. No human cases had been identified at the facility as of the announcement, and officials said the risk to the general public remained low.
For readers who keep chickens, ducks or other backyard birds, the practical message is to take a fresh look at the coop and the routines that keep wild birds away.
A few steps to protect a backyard flock
WSDA recommends keeping birds in their coop or a covered run, preventing access to ponds and lakes, storing feed in sealed containers, and promptly cleaning up spills. Limit coop visitors and avoid sharing equipment with other flock owners.
The Washington Department of Health's backyard-flock guidance also emphasizes keeping domestic birds away from wild animals and places those animals use.
Watch for unusual illness or deaths. DOH lists reduced eating or drinking, fewer eggs, eye or nasal discharge, and ruffled feathers among possible signs of bird flu. Contact your veterinarian about those changes.
Know whom to call
If you suspect bird flu, contact your veterinarian and report unusual illness or deaths to WSDA's Avian Health Program at 1-800-606-3056.
Avoid handling sick or dead birds. Follow WSDA's instructions before disposing of them, and follow the linked health-agency guidance on protective equipment if contact cannot be avoided.
This announcement concerns a Pierce County facility. For broader background on animal exposures, milk and pets, read our Washington bird-flu guide for families and animal owners.
Information checked Nov. 5, 2026. Sources: Washington State Department of Agriculture, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and Washington State Department of Health.
