By Andi Anderson
Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa has issued a disaster declaration in response to a new case of avian flu detected in a turkey flock in Sac County, marking the third such case in the state's poultry this month.
This decision comes after the flu virus was also identified in a dairy herd in Sioux County, representing the eighth dairy herd affected in Iowa according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
The state has seen an increasing number of avian flu cases, prompting urgent actions to mitigate the spread. Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig has reached out to the United States Department of Agriculture seeking additional support following the discovery of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in another dairy cattle herd earlier in the month.
The declaration by Governor Reynolds enables state agencies to implement crucial measures including tracking, monitoring, rapid detection, and effective disposal and disinfection strategies.
Despite the rising cases, the Iowa Department of Agriculture assures the public that there is no risk to the safety of pasteurized milk or dairy products, as pasteurization processes effectively inactivate viruses and bacteria in milk.
Avian flu cases have been reported in eleven other states across the U.S., from Idaho to North Carolina, reflecting a widespread challenge. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service continues to monitor these developments closely.
While there is no immediate threat to the food supply chain, the agriculture department advises consumers to ensure that eggs and chicken are cooked properly. These measures are part of broader efforts to ensure public health and food safety amidst the ongoing outbreaks.
The situation highlights the importance of stringent biosecurity practices in agriculture to prevent the spread of diseases and protect both industry and consumer health.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy, Livestock