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MDA suspends some poultry auctions, shows, and swap meets in
The Missouri Department of Agriculture is taking steps to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The department has suspended all poultry and waterfowl auctions, shows, and swap meets in the counties containing control areas or surveillance zones. HPAI has been confirmed in Newtown, Jasper, McDonald, and Lawrence counties. MDA says the suspension will expand to other counties if additional cases are confirmed.
Missouri state veterinarian Steve Strubberg says restricting commingling of poultry is crucial to stopping the spread of avian influenza in Missouri. He is also encouraging all poultry producers to tighten biosecurity protocols.
Poultry can still be sold and exhibited in unaffected counties at this time, with strict biosecurity measures in place.
Producers who are concerned their flock might be infected should contact the state veterinarian’s office.
HPAI is highly contagious and often fatal to chickens, but is not a food safety concern.
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