Biosecurity Alert: Avian Influenza in Commercial Poultry on February 23, 2022

Poultry producers and hobbyists should be aware that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been detected in commercial poultry flocks, small/backyard hobby flocks, and in migratory birds in the United States. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has reported 247 H5N1 positive wild birds in nine states on the East coast. In addition, six states have confirmed H5N1 positive commercial and backyard flocks. The most recent HPAI outbreak was confirmed on an egg laying facility in Delaware on February 23, 2022. Flock size has varied between a few birds to several houses on a premises. It is critical that all poultry owners, regardless of flock size, take appropriate biosecurity precautions at this time.

Now is the time to revisit your biosecurity plan. If you do not have a biosecurity plan, it’s not too late to start. Preventing the introduction and spread of this devastating disease is essential. While you are working on your biosecurity plan, here are a few key biosecurity practices to implement immediately:

• Keep your poultry away from other birds
• Immediately clean up feed spills to discourage wild birds on your premises
• Limit visitors to only those essential for business. Make sure all visitors follow your biosecurity plan
• Wear dedicated footwear and clothing while servicing your poultry to minimize spreading the virus. Sanitize boots, hands, and tools before entering your flock premises

If you need assistance developing a biosecurity plan, you can visit Penn State Extension’s Avian Influenza webpage. To stay informed of the avian influenza situation in the US you can visit the USDA APHIS avian influenza webpage. Finally, if you suspect your flock has been exposed to the HPAI virus, please call the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 717-772-2852.