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Poultry disease threats top-of-mind

Disease threats are at the forefront as poultry producers try to keep flocks healthy.

Minnesota turkey grower John Zimmerman tells Brownfield highly pathogenic avian influenza cases are surging as wild birds migrate south for the winter.

“We’ve had some indications that we’re going to have it back in Minnesota shortly. Also avian metapneumovirus, we’re still trying to get the government to release a modified live vaccine that’s available in Europe. And we want to have that tool so we can hopefully control this other infection that’s really doing some great damage to some of our flocks.”

Iowa has reported three cases of avian flu since Thursday and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says producers continue to prioritize biosecurity.

“They’re probably already on top of it and they don’t need me to tell them, but I just think you need to know I consider this a serious thing and (am) doing all the resources I have to alert the issue to the country.”

Grassley says Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has declared a disaster proclamation, opening up state and federal resources for affected poultry producers.

John Zimmerman interview:

Chuck Grassley audio: