Ohio is intensifying efforts to curb the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza as the state grapples with its economic impact. The 2022 outbreak resulted in nearly $3 billion in national losses, with egg prices nearing records due to inflation.
Ten counties in Ohio reported suspected wild bird deaths linked to bird flu, including Warren County where dead mallard ducks and Canadian geese were found. A chicken farmer in Darke County euthanized over 900,000 birds after finding infected ones on his farm.
Experts warn that a single infected bird can lead to the destruction of an entire flock, resulting in reduced meat and egg supplies and higher prices. Ohio’s Director of Agriculture said the current outbreak is isolated, but the state was prepared for this possibility due to past outbreaks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 66 known cases of bird flu transmission to humans nationwide. A veterinarian emphasized the importance of biosecurity, warning that asymptomatic migratory waterfowl can transmit the disease into backyard flocks with devastating results.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources expressed concern about the potential threat to bald eagles, which are susceptible to the disease. The state’s growing eagle population is also at risk due to hunting raptors’ association with infected waterfowl.
In contrast, Kentucky reported only one bird flu case in December, affecting a single farm in Henderson County during the 2020-2022 outbreak.
Source: https://local12.com/news/local/ohio-battles-spread-bird-flu-avoid-potential-environmental-impact-rising-prices-eggs-chicken-geese-bald-eagles-birds-agriculture-cost-inflation-record-outbreak-sick-ill-illness-death-cdc-warren-county-euthanize-flock-commercial-farms-farming-cincinnati