Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza in California
Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI), North American lineage H7N3 was recently confirmed in two poultry flocks found in Stanislaus County, located in the Central Valley. The disease is known to be carried by migrating waterfowl and other wild birds, therefore the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is advising that all poultry owners throughout the State separate their poultry from wild birds to the greatest extent possible. It is advised that poultry be kept under cover or indoors when possible, particularly in areas where migrating waterfowl may be present.
Reminder to practice poultry bio-security Nevada County
While Nevada County is not a known hot spot for migrating waterfowl, thus the possibility of Avian Influenza occurring in Nevada County is low, this is another reminder that poultry owners should continue to practice bio-security within their own flocks. Flock owners should continue to educate themselves on ways to minimize the risk of inadvertently carrying viruses into their facility by ensuring proper personal protective gear is worn, following proper cleaning and disinfection procedures, and strictly limiting people that come into contact with your live bird area.
CDFA will reassess the risk of Avian Influenza by December 1, 2018 and rescind or modify this request based on any additional disease investigation information.
Contact Information
Questions can be directed to CDFA's Animal Health and Food Safety Services: Meat, Poultry and Egg Safety Branch, (916) 900-5004 or the Nevada County Department of Agriculture (530) 470-2690.
