AgTALKS - Avian Influenza Local Update
If you care for a poultry flock or dairy herd, train dogs for bird hunting, keep birds of prey for falconry, or are concerned about the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza in any way, this webinar is for you! Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services and the Montana Department of Livestock will be offering a wonderfully comprehensive update on the state of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in the United States and the risks to Montana birds and livestock. Please register whether or not you'll attend the event or request the recording.
Key Takeaways from Part 1:
1. Develop a comfortable understanding of what “bird flu” is and how it’s different (and similar) to seasonal flu
2. An overview of what the current situation is with bird flu in the United States and Montana
3. Understand how bird flu may spread to people, the symptoms, and how to limit your risk
Key Takeaways from Part II:
1. How to use biosecurity to protect your birds
2. Signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry
3. What to do if you suspect highly pathogenic avian influenza infection in your flock
Speaker Bios:
Devon Cozart - Vectorborne and Zoonotic Epidemiologist for Montana
Devon Cozart is the current vectorborne and zoonotic disease epidemiologist with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. In this role, she specializes in understanding and investigating cases of infectious diseases spread to people following interactions with insects and/or animals – including diseases such as rabies, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, West Nile virus, Q fever, hantavirus, and zoonotic influenza viruses. Previously, Devon received a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science from Florida State University and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology and Global Communicable Disease from the University of South Florida.
Emily Kaleczyc, VMD, MPH - Assistant State Veterinarian
Dr. Emily Kaleczyc joined MDOL as the assistant state veterinarian in September of 2025. Dr. Kaleczyc previously worked for the Department of Livestock in the brucellosis program and in meat and poultry inspection before spending the last 5 years with USDA Veterinary Services. Prior to joining MDOL the first time, Dr. Kaleczyc worked in a mixed animal practice in Helena and was a 2013 graduate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. As the Assistant State Veterinarian, Dr. Kaleczyc oversees the state's disease programs, animal import and export, and emergency preparedness.
