Governor Kim Reynolds authorizes a Disaster Proclamation for Cherokee County following a confirmed case of bird flu in a commercial turkey flock. The decision comes in response to the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which poses a significant threat to both the agricultural industry and public health.
The Disaster Proclamation activates state resources and permits a coordinated response to contain the outbreak. State and federal agencies are working together to implement quarantine measures, conduct thorough testing, and ensure the swift culling of affected birds to prevent the spread of the virus.
Governor Reynolds stresses the importance of this swift action, noting that HPAI can devastate poultry populations and severely impact the agricultural economy. The proclamation allows for the mobilization of additional resources and support to affected farmers, including financial assistance and guidance on biosecurity measures to protect other flocks.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is leading the response efforts. They are closely monitoring the situation and conducting surveillance in surrounding areas to detect any further cases. Public health officials assure residents that while HPAI is highly contagious among birds, the risk to human health is low. However, they advise caution and proper handling of poultry products.
Farmers in Cherokee County and surrounding regions are urged to remain vigilant and report any signs of illness in their flocks immediately. The symptoms of bird flu include sudden death, lack of energy and appetite, decreased egg production, and swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, and hocks. Early detection and reporting are crucial to controlling the outbreak and minimizing its impact.
The Disaster Proclamation also emphasizes the importance of biosecurity practices, such as limiting access to poultry farms, disinfecting equipment and clothing, and ensuring that all visitors follow strict hygiene protocols. These measures are essential to prevent the spread of the virus to other poultry operations.
As the situation develops, state officials are committed to providing regular updates and working closely with the agricultural community to manage the outbreak. The goal is to contain the virus quickly and protect Iowa’s vital poultry industry.
