Bird Flu Crisis Spreads: 7 Million Birds Culled in Pennsylvania as H5N1 Reaches Seals and Livestock Nationwide

Pennsylvania declares crisis mode as bird flu outbreaks surge, with over 7 million birds culled in the state this year alone, accounting for more than half of U.S. cases. RFD-TV reports Governor Josh Shapiro highlighted 15 commercial flock outbreaks in February, prompting expanded biosecurity hires and support from the state's unique HPAI recovery fund. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding stressed on-farm measures like limiting access and close monitoring to contain the spread. In Indiana, a fresh outbreak hit a commercial meat duck flock of 10,500 in LaGrange County, now quarantined with active 10km control and 20km surveillance zones, per the Indiana Board of Animal Health's March 1 update. The U.S. has seen HPAI on over 2,000 premises since 2022, the largest animal health emergency in history. California confirmed its first bird flu cases in northern elephant seals today, with seven weaned pups testing positive for H5N1 at Ano Nuevo State Park, according to Inside Climate News. Researchers from UC Santa Cruz and UC Davis noted 30 deaths showing tremors and weakness; viewing areas are closed amid fears of wider spread, echoing 2023 mass die-offs in South America. Globally, Poultrymed notes Argentina culled a commercial breeder flock near Buenos Aires on February 23, halting exports, while Israel reported a second turkey outbreak. Human risk remains low, with cooked poultry and pasteurized products safe. Experts warn climate-driven bird migrations heighten spillover risks to mammals, including dairy cattle and cats. Thank you for tuning in. Come back next week for more. This has been a Quiet Please production. For me, check out Quiet Please Dot A I. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.