By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has issued a suspension on all poultry and waterfowl auctions, shows, and swap meets in counties affected by avian influenza control areas or surveillance zones.
This action is in response to confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in commercial poultry flocks across Newton, Jasper, McDonald, and Lawrence counties.
HPAI is a highly contagious and lethal virus that affects domesticated poultry, and it has been detected in all 50 states since 2022.
While poultry events remain prohibited in these counties, they are still permitted in other areas of Missouri that are not impacted by the disease, provided strict biosecurity measures are followed.
The Department of Agriculture has urged poultry producers to take precautions by limiting interaction between their birds and wild birds, which are known to spread the virus.
Producers should also be vigilant in monitoring their flocks and report any sick or deceased birds to the state veterinarian at (573) 751-3377.
The suspension aims to prevent further spread of HPAI and protect the health of Missouri's poultry industry. Continued vigilance and cooperation from producers are essential in managing the risks associated with the disease.
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Categories: Missouri, Livestock, Poultry