Animal Health & Biosecurity

H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) is a highly contagious viral disease that can spread from wild bird species to domestic poultry (commercial and backyard flocks) and dairy cattle. On January 7, 2025, the California State Veterinarian announced a statewide ban on all poultry and dairy cattle exhibition at fairs and shows. This ban was implemented to mitigate the risk of disease transmission to uninfected dairy cattle and poultry. This ban current remains in place.

California - Poultry & Dairy Cattle Exhibition Ban (Jan 7, 2025)

Statewide Ban - Poultry & Dairy Cattle Exhibition FAQ 

**Current CDFA Updates: Avian Influenza

• Avian Biosecurity Poster 

• Tips to keep your birds healthy 

• Biosecurity for All - Information 

• Avian Influenza FAQ (2023) 

• Common Clinic Signs - HPAI and Virulent Newcastle Disease (2023) 

• Disease Prevention Guide - Backyard Poultry (2021)

• CDFA Recommended Biosecurity Practices for Poultry Exhibition (2021)

**Current CDFA Updates: H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

• HPAI H5N1 in Livestock FAQ (2024) 

In California, effective January 1, 2018, over-the-counter injectable and medically-important antimicrobials must be administered with a prescription or veterinary feed directive (VFD) ordered by a California-licensed veterinarian under a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR). 

Note that these changes are separate from the federal regulations regarding antimicrobials in feed and water that became effective on January 1, 2017 (see below). Regulation of the sale of dewormers, vaccines, and vitamins will not change. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Antimicrobial Use and Stewardship Program Updates