Texas Officials Warn of Spreading Bird Flu in Amarillo and Lubbock

TPWD urges residents to take precautions as highly contagious avian influenza affects wild and domestic birds

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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As bird flu continues to spread among wild birds in Amarillo and Lubbock, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is warning residents to take precautions. The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus can transmit easily between birds and some mammal species, though the current public health risk to humans remains low. TPWD is advising people to avoid unnecessary contact with wild birds, discontinue use of bird feeders, clean water sources regularly, and keep pets away from sick or dead animals.

Why it matters

The spread of bird flu in Texas raises concerns about potential risks to domestic poultry, wildlife, and even human health. While no person-to-person transmission has been reported, the virus can infect some mammals, and two human deaths from bird flu have been recorded nationwide. Containing the outbreak and preventing further spread is crucial to protect the local ecosystem and public safety.

The details

Since the start of the outbreak in February 2022, Texas has reported three affected commercial flocks, 17 affected backyard flocks, and a total of over 2.1 million birds affected. The latest detection was in January 2026 in Carson County, marking the second confirmed case in that county. TPWD is urging residents to take preventive measures, such as discontinuing use of bird feeders, regularly cleaning water sources, and keeping pets away from sick or dead animals.

  • The bird flu outbreak in Texas began on February 8, 2022.
  • The latest reported detection was on January 8, 2026 in Carson County.

The players

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Texas's natural resources, including wildlife, and providing guidance to residents on environmental issues.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The leading national public health institute in the United States, responsible for monitoring and responding to disease outbreaks, including the current bird flu situation.

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What’s next

TPWD is urging residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and continue following the recommended precautions to help slow the spread of the bird flu outbreak.

The takeaway

The bird flu outbreak in Texas highlights the importance of proactive measures to protect both wildlife and domestic animals, as well as the need for close coordination between state and federal health authorities to effectively manage and contain the spread of highly contagious diseases.