About Avian Influenza
Avian influenza (AI) is a disease caused by a group of viruses that are particularly effective at spreading among birds. Avian influenza is spread through contact with fecal droppings, saliva, and nasal discharges of infected birds. A farm with detected avian influenza must quickly and humanely depopulate the affected flock. The farm is then thoroughly disinfected to kill all traces of the virus.
[Three photos: A chicken barn, a handful of chickens, another chicken barn.]
Impact on Farmers
Caring for animals and being faced with a depopulation situation can create stress for producers and workers. Stress happens to all of us, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed, especially during tough times. If
you feel anxious or depressed, you are not alone. Beyond your friends and family, there are many resources to help.
Know the Signs of Stress and Depression
- Persistent worry and fear.
- Apprehension and uneasiness.
- Avoiding others.
- Feeling sad.
- Lack of interest or pleasure in activities.
- Significant weight change or changes in appetite.
- Problems sleeping.
- Slow or fidgety body movements.
- Low energy/fatigue.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Frequent thoughts of death or suicide.
- Substance misuse.
- Unexplained changes in physical appearance or behavior.
- Headaches.
- Feelings of isolation.
- Anger.
- Feeling numb.
Know When to Seek Help
If you or someone you know shows signs of stress over the past 2 weeks, seek help from a mental health professional or one of the resources at the bottom of this article. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8 right away if you or someone you know threatens to hurt or kill themself or someone else, or talks or writes about death, dying, or suicide.
Being prepared with information on the personal safety and health of you and your workers will help relieve stress. Use your smart phone to scan the QR code or click here to review PPE guidelines for Avian Influenza. [Photo of QR code.]
Take Care of Yourself & Your Workers
Caring for your physical health can help lower your stress level.
- Eat healthy foods.
- Drink lots of water.
- Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
- Avoid tobacco or illegal drugs.
- Get enough sleep and rest.
- Get physical exercise.
Use Simple Techniques for Relaxation
- Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
- Engage in your favorite hobbies.
- Pace yourself between stressful activities.
- Find a work/life balance and do something you.
- enjoy between stressful tasks.
- Talk about your feelings to loved ones and friends.
Check in often to make sure everyone is doing well.
The Animal Depopulation Resiliency Check-in Tool can be a helpful resource to guide conversations.
Use your smart phone to scan the QR code [photo of QR code].
QPR for Farmers & Farm Families
The Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training teaches laypeople and professionals to recognize and respond to mental health crises. QPR for Farmers and Farm Families is specially tailored to the agricultural
community. QPR trainings are available free to Nebraskans through the AgriSafe Network and the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Sign up for free virtual QPR training.
Resources
Stress and Wellness
- Veterans’ Crisis Line: Dial 9-8-8. Press 1, or text to 838255
- SAMHSA National Hotline: Dial 800-662-HELP (4357)
Suicide
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 9-8-8
- National Suicide Prevention Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Funding provided to Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health by NIOSH AFF Grant U54OH010162.
[Logo: AgHealth Central States, Center for Agricultural Safety and Health. Logo: AgriSafe Network, Protecting the people who feed the world.]