Defend Your Flock From Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

Marion IA

19 March, 2022

11:59 PM

Description

Press release from the City of Marion: March 17, 2022 The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. It remains safe to eat poultry products. HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys. The virus can spread through droppings or nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil. Clinical signs of the disease include: All bird owners, including backyard flock owners, should practice good biosecurity, prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual deaths to state/federal officials. Practicing good on-farm biosecurity is the best way to keep your birds healthy. Biosecurity resources and best practices are available at iowaagriculture.gov/biosecurity. If you suspect signs of HPAI in your flocks, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture at (515) 281-5305. This press release was produced by the City of Marion. The views expressed here are the author's own.