IDALS Confirms HPAI Impacting 4.2 Million Chickens in Sioux County, Iowa
Officials from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship have confirmed that 4.2 million commercial egg-laying chickens in Sioux County, Iowa have been impacted by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
This marks the first confirmed case of HPAI in the state this year, according to Kevin Stiles, the executive director of the North Central Poultry Association. Stiles expressed his sadness for the affected farmers, acknowledging the stress they must be facing during this challenging time.
In response to the outbreak, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has signed a disaster proclamation for the county, effective through June 27th. This proclamation allows state agencies to provide assistance with tracking, monitoring, rapid detection, containment, disposal, and disinfection efforts. Additionally, regulatory provisions related to commercial vehicles responding to affected sites have been waived.
Despite the significant impact on the local poultry industry, Stiles reassures the public that there will be no disruptions to the U.S. egg supply. With 300 million egg-laying hens across the country, the overall egg supply remains strong.
Furthermore, Stiles emphasizes that HPAI detections in birds do not pose an immediate public health concern. While there have been confirmed cases of HPAI in dairy workers in Texas and Michigan, it is safe to consume poultry products as the outbreak is contained within the bird population.