State Animal Health Officials Urging Poultry Owners to Increase Biosecurity
Friday, March 10th, 2017 -- 8:08 AM
(Wisconsin Ag Connection) -State animal health officials are urging all poultry owners to increase their biosecurity measures now that avian flu cases have been confirmed in Wisconsin and Tennessee.Assistant State Veterinarian Dr. Darlene Konkle says it is in a poultry owner's best interest to take precautions now to minimize the effect that avian influenza will have on their flock if the disease continues to spread. Earlier this week, the USDA confirmed that a turkey flock in Barron County contracted the H5N2 virus, which is considered to be a low pathogenic strain. However, the case discovered in a Tennessee commercial chicken operation was a highly pathogenic strain--which can often be fatal for birds.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture advises bird operations, regardless of size, restrict access to their property and keep birds away from other birds. Farm operators should also avoid sharing equipment or supplies with neighbors or other bird owners. Most importantly, Konkle says producers should know the warning signs. Producers who do find a sick or dead bird are being asked not to touch it. If your birds are sick or dying at an abnormal rate, call DATCP at 800-572-8981.
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