The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial chicken flock in Sioux County, western Iowa. This marks the fourth HPAI detection in 2024 and the first since June.
Governor Kim Reynolds has authorized a disaster proclamation for Sioux County until January 5, 2025. The proclamation allows state resources to help track, contain, and disinfect affected areas.
Experts have assured that the detection of HPAI does not pose an immediate public health risk, but eating poultry products is still safe. Anyone with chickens exhibiting symptoms such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or soft eggs should contact their veterinarian immediately. Symptoms include swelling of the head and limbs, difficulty breathing, and runny nose.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture has released a list of clinical signs to identify potential cases. These include increased bird deaths without symptoms, decreased egg production, soft-shelled eggs, and swollen areas on the bird’s body.
Source: https://www.kcrg.com/2024/12/06/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-detected-western-iowa