The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) has launched a survey targeting residents involved in backyard poultry keeping or bird rescue. The initiative seeks to collect data on awareness and preparedness regarding bird flu, officially known as avian influenza.
Dr. Sarah Kemble, the Hawaiʻi state epidemiologist, explained the purpose behind this effort: “We want to better understand the potential exposures that backyard flock owners and bird rescuers face when it comes to avian influenza, so we can help prevent future human bird flu infections in partnership with the community.” The DOH aims for broad participation through both digital and in-person outreach methods.
Participation is limited to Hawaiʻi residents who have at least one poultry bird at home, are engaged in bird rescue activities, or have had direct contact with birds within the past year. The survey will remain anonymous and is accessible online via a provided link: https://redcap.link/birdflusurvey.
To promote participation, the DOH plans to share the survey link on Facebook groups focused on local backyard flock owners and bird rescuers. Flyers containing QR codes linking to the survey will also be distributed at poultry feed stores and other animal care locations throughout Hawaiʻi.
The department encourages prompt completion of the survey to assist in gathering valuable insights into current practices and needs related to avian influenza exposure.
