A recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a commercial poultry flock in Adair County, Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, in conjunction with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), has acknowledged the presence of the virus and is taking measures to prevent its spread.
Oklahoma's State Veterinarian, Dr. Rod Hall, expressed that the state has been gearing up to properly respond to such an outbreak. According to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Dr. Hall stated, "We’ve been preparing for situations like this due to HPAI circulating around the country for the last two and a half years." In an effort to quickly contain and control the disease, a strategic response plan has been activated involving close collaboration with federal agencies and local producers.
In response to the detection of HPAI, a control area has been set up in Adair and Delaware counties, restricting poultry movement to help manage to potentially stop the spread of the disease. Flock owners are urged to be vigilant and protective of their poultry by minimizing their exposure to wild birds, which are a common vector for avian influenza. Essential biosecurity measures and best practices can be found through the state department's resources.
Despite the severity of the outbreak among birds, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention clarifies that the detection of HPAI in birds does not pose an immediate threat to public health. It remains safe to consume poultry products, and it's important to note that the affected birds will not be entering the food supply chain. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture also reassures that cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit will effectively kill any viruses and bacteria.
Poultry owners who suspect an HPAI infection in their flocks are advised to contact their veterinarian without delay and also report possible cases to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry at (405) 522-6141. Prompt reporting and response are critical in managing the spread of this highly contagious virus among avian populations.
