HPAI Detected in Jessamine County Backyard Flock

By Blake Jackson

Federal and state authorities have confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a backyard poultry flock in Jessamine County, Kentucky.

Kentucky State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Velasco III reported that samples collected from the premises tested positive for HPAI at the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

“The Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s (KDA) Office of State Veterinarian (OSV) is working closely with federal animal health officials and other state agencies to contain this incident of avian influenza,” Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “Protecting the health of livestock and poultry in the Commonwealth is a top priority of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.”

The virus, which can be deadly to chickens and turkeys, was first suspected on Dec. 6 when flock owners reported higher-than-normal mortality. Testing conducted at the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and USDA’s NVSL confirmed HPAI.

Following confirmation, the KDA/OSV Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response deployed to the premises. The affected flock has been quarantined, and depopulation began on Dec. 11. A 10-kilometer surveillance zone has been established, with movement restrictions on all backyard and commercial poultry operations. Premises in the zone are under active monitoring, and birds showing clinical signs of HPAI will be tested.

“We are working diligently to prevent this virus from spreading to other poultry premises,” Dr. Velasco said. “We have activated our avian influenza response plan and are in active communication with our state, federal, and industry partners.”

HPAI does not pose a food safety risk; properly handled and cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat. Bird owners are advised to review biosecurity practices, avoid contact between domestic and wild birds, and report sick or deceased birds to USDA at 1-866-536-7593. Additional guidance is available at USDA Healthy Birds.

Kentucky ranks eighth nationally in broiler production and 15th in overall poultry and egg sales, generating over $1.7 billion annually.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex