Minnesota Reports First Bird Flu Case Since April
St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - The bird flu has reappeared in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Board of Animal Health announced today that testing has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock in southwestern Minnesota. The detection in Redwood County is the first confirmed case in the state since April 23.
Redwood County Farm Reports HPAI Outbreak
The discovery comes just weeks after the state officially declared freedom from the disease following efforts through the summer to eliminate the virus from quarantined sites across Minnesota.
“Though we remain hopeful that we can eliminate HPAI in Minnesota’s poultry stock, this case was not wholly unexpected as we move into the migration season for wild waterfowl,” said Dr. Shauna Voss, Assistant Director of the Board. “Vigilance and robust biosecurity remain the best methods for flock owners to protect poultry from avian influenza.”
20,000 Turkeys Affected in Latest Outbreak
A news release from state agencies says the Redwood County flock, which has approximately 20,000 turkeys, was tested after showing signs of increased mortality. Samples were collected on Sunday, and the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Iowa has now confirmed the presence of HPAI.
More information about highly pathogenic avian influenza and biosecurity measures can be found on the Minnesota Board of Animal Health website.
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