Cases of bird flu confirmed at Pinal County poultry farm

PHOENIX — Poultry on a Pinal County commercial farm tested positive for avian influenza more, commonly known as the bird flu, according to the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

The poultry began exhibiting signs of the bird flu on Nov. 11. Samples taken from the poultry at the location were sent to the Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Lab for preliminary testing, then later sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory which confirmed the positive result.

According to a press release from the AZDA, after the poultry became sick, eggs stopped being produced. No contaminated eggs shipped out into the food supply. AZDA is enacting a fast response to help with any supply chain challenges.

What is being done to prevent the bird flu from spreading?

The risk to the general public is low with those most at risk of exposure being the commercial farmworkers who are involved with the daily care of the birds, according to the CDC.

“ADHS (Arizona Department of Health Services) is collaborating with AZDA in the response to avian influenza and will continue to monitor influenza activity in Arizona in collaboration with local health departments. While the risk to the general public remains low, workers and individuals that may be at risk for exposure to avian influenza should follow public health guidance,” ADHS Assistant Director of Preparedness Nicole Witt said.

The AZDA and the AZDA State Veterinarian directors placed the poultry farm under quarantine and extra security measures to prevent the virus from spreading.

State officials advise the public that if anyone sees signs of illness in poultry, it must be reported immediately to the USDA at 1-866-536-7593.