OHIO, USA — More than 2.6 million chickens will be slaughtered after the bird flu was detected at a Hardin County egg farm.
According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the National Veterinary Laboratory confirmed a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza detection at the farm last week. 10TV learned the chickens belong to the Trillium Farms.
When the bird flu is detected, ODA quarantines the area and the birds are killed to prevent the spread of the disease. A surveillance zone is set up to monitor other facilities nearby.
Trillium Farms sent the following statement on Thursday:
“Despite strong biosecurity measures and continuing disease prevention programs across our farms, we learned this past week that our farm in Hardin County tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This was devastating news for our farm and our teams, who work each day to protect the health and well-being of the hens in our care.
"We appreciate the comprehensive response from the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA), and in collaboration with ODA and USDA, we have taken all necessary steps to protect neighboring poultry farms.
“It is important for our community to know we have managed this difficult situation swiftly and responsibly. HPAI is an animal health issue; USDA confirms bird flu is not a public health concern, and that eggs are safe to eat.
“HPAI, or bird flu, does not discriminate, and it has affected wild birds, migratory waterfowl, backyard flocks and commercial poultry farms in Ohio and worldwide. While this case is isolated to one farm, our farms remain on high alert under stringent biosecurity protocols.
“We are grateful for the ongoing support of our team and our local community, as well as for our partnerships with government and egg industry experts.”
This outbreak comes less than a month after 1.3 million chickens were killed at a Union County egg farm where the bird flu was also detected.
Last year, there were nearly 58 million birds slaughtered as part of an outbreak. The virus is spread easily by wild birds through droppings and nasal discharges.
According to the CDC's website, the current risk to the general population is low.
Human cases are extremely rare and none of the infected birds are allowed into the nation's food supply. Properly cooking poultry and eggs to 165 degrees Fahrenheit will also kill any viruses.
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