The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has issued new guidelines for poultry producers to prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). This announcement was made by Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr. (R-47) in Harrisburg.
The department’s recommendations emphasize biosecurity measures aimed at minimizing contact between poultry and wild birds, as well as dairy cattle. Producers are advised to keep poultry indoors when possible during this period of increased risk.
“This virulent strain of avian influenza virus is circulating in the wild bird population and continues to find its way into commercial and backyard poultry,” stated Vogel. “It continues to impact the poultry industry nationwide. I urge Pennsylvania producers to follow these recommendations and take advantage of the outreach assistance that’s being made available.”
Poultry producers seeking more information on these updates can access resources and contacts through the state Department of Agriculture.
Since early 2022, HPAI has been present in the wild bird population across the United States and has affected commercial poultry operations. In recent developments, 17 new cases have been identified in dairy herds across four states within the last month. However, no cases have been reported in Pennsylvania dairies so far.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there have been 70 confirmed human cases of HPAI, primarily linked to infected poultry or dairy cattle. To date, no human cases have been reported in Pennsylvania.
For further inquiries, contact Lily Guthrie at 717-787-3076.
