One of the leading poultry farms in Texas was forced to cull nearly 2 million birds. This was reported by state agriculture commissioner Sid Miller after a positive test for avian influenza in chickens and one of the plant workers. The flock will be reduced by 1.6 million laying hens and 337 thousand young birds.
In March, highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in one of the employees at a poultry farm, which was reported to the Texas Department of Health. The first signs of infection, manifested as conjunctivitis, were noticed in the worker, presumably after contact with young birds.
“A week later, Cal-Maine Foods reported a positive test result for highly pathogenic avian influenza in chicks raised at the facility. As a result, nearly 2 million birds were culled — 1.6 million laying hens and 337 thousand young birds,” reports The Hill.
The infection of a Texas resident marked the second case of human infection with the H5N1 strain in the U.S. since 2022 and the first case after contact with cattle. According to The Hill, the employee experienced the illness without complications and has already recovered. The state agriculture commissioner emphasized that livestock owners should be vigilant for the first signs of possible infection among both poultry and cattle.
“This is sad news for California and the entire region, which has previously suffered from devastating wildfires. The uncontrolled spread of the virus requires immediate action. All companies must implement enhanced biosecurity measures. I urge producers to cooperate with government agencies and report birds and animals showing symptoms. Controlling the situation will be key to identifying and mitigating the impact of the outbreak,” noted Sid Miller.
Currently, the largest egg supplier in the U.S. has suspended its production. The company is following the protocols mandated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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