H5N1 Avian Flu detected in Idaho Alpacas
The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) have confirmed the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in alpacas from a premises where HPAI-affected poultry were depopulated in May 2024, marking the first detection of HPAI in alpacas. Genetic sequencing at the USDA's NVSL reveals that the virus infecting the alpacas is the same B3.13 H5N1 genome circulating in dairy cows and the same genotype that affected poultry at the Idaho farm.
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) reported that the poultry on the Idaho farm were depopulated this month. According to a notification from the World Organization for Animal Health, the affected alpacas and poultry were from a backyard farm in Jerome County. The virus was detected in 6 of the farm's 18 alpacas. Three that were pregnant had spontaneous abortions.