The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) and the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture (HDOA) have identified a potential exposure to avian influenza at the Mililani Pet Fair held on November 2, 2024. This follows an investigation into a confirmed case of H5N1 avian influenza in a backyard flock in Central Oʻahu.
Although birds from the infected flock were present at the fair, they showed no signs of infection until several days later. The DOH states that "the likelihood of spreading H5N1 to humans is low." However, as a precaution, individuals who attended the fair and had contact with ducks or geese are advised to monitor for symptoms such as influenza-like illness (ILI) and conjunctivitis.
Those who attended but have not developed symptoms can be reassured. Avian influenza symptoms typically appear within two to five days after exposure but may take up to ten days. Symptoms in humans are usually mild and include fever, cough, sore throat, and conjunctivitis. Treatment with antiviral medications is available.
The DOH advises anyone experiencing ongoing symptoms after attending the fair to isolate at home and contact their primary care provider for evaluation and testing. They should also call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586 for guidance. Those who experienced resolved symptoms should also report them via this line. Health care providers can send samples to Hawaiʻi’s State Laboratory Division for testing.
Animal owners whose pets had contact with ducks or geese at the fair should consult veterinarians if their animals show signs of illness. Although transmission risk is low, local veterinarians have been informed by HDOA veterinarians about the situation.
To report illnesses in poultry or other animals, contact HDOA’s Animal Industry Division during business hours at 808-483-7102 or during non-business hours at 808-837-8092.
For more information on avian influenza, visit the DOH website: https://health.hawaii.gov/docd/disease_listing/avian-influenza/.