2022 avian influenza outbreak hits 11th flock in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A flock of about 100 birds within the Fort Wayne space is the newest with avian influenza, testing decided on Thursday.

The Indiana State Board of Animal Well being says the Allen County flock’s proprietor observed an unexplained loss of life of eight birds in lower than 24 hours and known as the federal Well being Birds Hotline. The flock is a industrial poultry operation that provides eggs for some households, state officers say. The announcement from the Board of Animal Well being didn’t say what kind of birds are concerned. A quarantine has been been put in place across the Allen County operation. Different close by flocks shall be examined.

The flock is the second in Allen County and the eleventh in Indiana to file constructive assessments for fowl flu this 12 months. The 2022 fowl flu outbreak is Indiana’s largest in years, a part of the worst outbreak in the US since 2015.

Rising costs for eggs has been one impact of the outbreak, though avian influenza doesn’t pose a meals security danger.

Right here’s information on fowl flu outbreaks up to now this 12 months in Indiana:

As well as on Thursday, the Board of Animal Well being revealed extra wild birds with avian influenza. Of 300 wild birds examined in Indiana, constructive outcomes have been present in two bald eagles, two red-tailed hawks, a redhead duck, two great-horned owls, and a double-crested cormorant. 

On April 28, the U.S. Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention reported the primary case of an individual with avian influenza.

The USDA’s Wholesome Birds Hotline is 866-536-7593.