Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been identified in Iowa in a non-commercial poultry flock. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the positive case in Pottawattamie County. Iowa Sec. of Agriculture, Mike Naig, says, “We recognize the threat HPAI and other foreign animal diseases pose to Iowa agriculture. We have been working with USDA, livestock producers and other stakeholders to develop, test and strengthen our foreign animal disease preparedness and response plans since the 2015 HPAI outbreak. While a case like this is not unexpected, we are working with USDA and other partners to implement our plans and protect the health of poultry flocks in Iowa.” HPAI does not pose a threat to public health, but all poultry owners should maintain good biosecurity in their flock, prevent contact with wild birds and report any unusual illness or death to state and federal officials. If producers suspect an HPAI infection, they are encouraged to contact their veterinarian immediately and the Iowa Dept. of Ag. For more information, follow the link included below.
_____
https://iowaagriculture.gov/animal-industry-bureau/avian-influenza
