In response to recent news that there has been new cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) detected in Minnesota, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach urges diligence for turkey producers to ensure the disease is contained.
"A case of HPAI in Minnesota, while unfortunate, has been anticipated for months. We know that this time will be different from the major outbreak in 2015. We have learned many lessons since then, provided appropriate agencies resources and authorities to prepare and respond, so this case is not catching us off guard. I look forward to working with our partners at the Minnesota Board of Animal Health, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Agriculture, and others to ensure they have the resources they need to address this disease," said Rep. Fischbach.
"If you are a consumer, know that this disease presents a very low risk to the public, and does not pose a food safety risk. The turkey products you find on grocery store shelves are nutritious and safe regardless of this outbreak. If you are a producer, there are resources available to you to prepare and respond to an outbreak. Do not hesitate to reach out to my office if my staff and I can be helpful."
If you are a consumer, you can find more information on the health impacts of HPAI at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.
If you are a grower, please visit the USDA website to see their resources.
In the meantime, it is advised you take these steps:
- Limit outside contact to your flock,
- Implement biosecurity control measures for outside disease vectors like pests and wild birds,
- Clean and disinfect everything,
- Remain cautious over changes in behavioral patterns and mortality rates of your flock, and
- Review and update security protocols:
USDA Defend the Flock - Biosecurity 101
U.S. Poultry and Egg Association Biosecurity Resources
Iowa State University Poultry Biosecurity Resources
University of Georgia Biosecurity Basics for Poultry Growers
National Poultry Improvement Plans
You can visit the National Turkey Federation website for more information on Avian Influenza, it's current status, available resources for producers, and more. As always, my office is open and ready to serve constituents of Minnesota's Seventh Congressional District. If you are a producer affected by this outbreak, please do not hesitate to get in touch if there is anything I can do to help.
This email has been updated to correct an error from the previous release.