Which signs are most consistent with highly pathogenic avian influenza in chickens and turkeys?

• A. Neurologic And Respiratory Signs And Decreased Egg Production
• B. Difficulty Chewing And Swallowing, Flaccid Neck Muscles And Weight Loss
• C. Loss Of Color In The Eyes, Comb And Wattle
• D. Matting And Loss Of Feathers

Answer: (D)

Highly pathogenic avian influenza tends to cause an acute, systemic illness in chickens and turkeys, and the way the bird’s plumage is affected can be a noticeable field sign. When flu viruses infect poultry, nasal and ocular secretions are common, and these discharges can mat the feathers around the face and head and contribute to apparent feather loss or poor preening. This visible feather matting, resulting from the combination of illness and discharged fluids, is a practical sign you’re likely to observe in affected flocks.

Other options describe signs that are less specific or point toward different diseases. Neurologic and respiratory signs with decreased egg production can occur with avian diseases but are not as distinctive for influenza as the conspicuous feather matting caused by facial secretions. Difficulties with chewing and swallowing and flaccid neck muscles align more with neuromuscular conditions other than influenza. Loss of color in the eyes, comb, and wattle is not a typical hallmark of influenza.