The Pennsylvania Agricultural Service has identified the state’s first positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in domestic poultry in a flock of commercial poultry farms in Lancaster County. A state and federal inter-ministerial task force will be prepared and a response plan will begin. ..
There is no risk to the public and poultry and eggs can be safely eaten if cooked properly, but HPAI is highly infectious and can be used in poultry (chicken, duck, goose, quail, pheasant, guinea fowl, guinea fowl). It can be fatal.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the detection of bird flu does not indicate imminent public health concerns. No human cases of avian influenza virus have been detected in the United States.
Positive samples were taken from a herd in East Danegor Township, Lancaster County and tested at the Pennsylvania Veterinary Institute. This discovery was confirmed by the National Institute of Veterinary Services in Ames, Iowa. This department quarantined farms and all commercial poultry facilities within a 10km radius of the infected herd.
“Protecting Pennsylvania’s $ 7.1 billion poultry industry is a top priority throughout the year,” said PA Agriculture Secretary Russell Reading. “We have strict biosecurity protocols in place for both Pennsylvania farms and poultry products shipped inside and outside the state. Since 2016, we have $ 2 million to combat bird flu. We have budgeted and secured it. In addition, equipment, equipment, laboratories and highly trained professionals are vigilant and support poultry farmers. “
“There are no immediate public health concerns for Pennsylvania citizens. We are ready to address this agricultural problem, but wild birds carry viruses and do not respect property or state boundaries.” He added. “Everyone who visits the farm should be aware that your car or shoes can carry the virus from other places you walked. Clean them thoroughly and you are there. Keep away from the poultry hut unless you need to be there. Be vigilant and play your part in protecting our farm. ”
The Inter-Ministry HPAI Task Force works regularly to address the threat of disease to wild bird and poultry populations in Pennsylvania. The Task Force includes the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Department, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Health, the Department of General Services, the Environmental Protection Agency, the State Police, the Game Commission, the Air Force State Department, and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. (APHIS) Veterinary and wildlife services.
The Task Force implements response plans, including education and public support, and minimizes risk factors through rigorous biosecurity measures and continuous monitoring, testing, and management.
This is the first confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in commercial poultry in Pennsylvania since its outbreak in 1983-84. As of April 15, 2022, 27 states, including most of the states around Pennsylvania, have been identified with birds infected with commercial and backyard poultry herds.
