Isolate any sick or dead chickens immediately
Wear gloves, a mask, and protective clothing before handling birds
Contact a veterinarian, poultry diagnostic lab, or local animal health authority
Collect samples only if trained or instructed to do so
Use cloacal and throat swabs for live birds
Use fresh carcass tissue samples for dead birds
Place samples in sterile containers and keep them refrigerated
Submit samples for PCR testing for avian influenza
Request rapid antigen testing if available, but confirm with PCR
Test the entire flock if multiple birds show signs or die
Monitor for sudden death, swollen head, coughing, nasal discharge, diarrhea, or drop in egg production
Report suspected bird flu to local agricultural or veterinary authorities
Follow official guidance on quarantine, movement restrictions, and disposal of infected birds