By Andi Anderson
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has issued a cautionary warning to poultry and dairy farmers, urging them to take proactive biosecurity measures to protect their livestock against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
With the fall migration season underway, the risk of HPAI spreading among domestic birds is increasing, and Secretary Naig emphasized the importance of prevention.
According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, HPAI can be particularly deadly for domestic bird populations, while lactating dairy cattle can also be affected, though they tend to recover with supportive care.
Naig encouraged all livestock producers to review and strengthen their biosecurity plans to ensure the safety of their animals.
“Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to pose a serious risk for our state’s poultry and dairy farms as well as those who have backyard birds. We urge all producers to remain vigilant and ensure their biosecurity practices are in place,” Naig said.
He also reassured farmers that his department, alongside the USDA and industry partners, is prepared to respond swiftly to any outbreaks.
Farmers should watch for clinical signs of HPAI in birds, including sudden deaths, lethargy, reduced egg production, and respiratory distress.
In dairy cattle, symptoms may include a drop in milk production, lethargy, nasal discharge, and fever. It is essential to act quickly if any symptoms arise to prevent the spread of the virus.
Iowa has reported three cases of HPAI in poultry and 13 cases in dairy cattle so far in 2024. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship provided a detailed list of biosecurity recommendations to help farmers safeguard their operations and minimize the risk of infection.
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Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy