The first case of bird flu, a highly contagious avian influenza virus (HPAI), was detected on a poultry farm in Lehigh County, near Philadelphia. Officials confirmed the infection through tests at the state’s Diagnostic Laboratory System and later at the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has quarantined the infected flock and surrounding commercial poultry facilities within a 10-kilometer radius to prevent spread.
No humans or cattle in Pennsylvania have been infected with bird flu, as confirmed by the department. Secretary Russell Redding emphasized the importance of biosecurity measures on farms and dairy operations to combat the outbreak, which has already claimed lives in nearby states like Delaware.
In the Philadelphia region, other suspected cases include a sick snow goose found last week and a Kent County poultry flock tested positive earlier this year. Experts advise residents to avoid interacting with sick or dead birds due to potential risks of infection. While bird flu is rare, pets can also catch it by handling infected birds.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/bird-flu-lehigh-county-pennsylvania