INDIANAPOLIS — Poultry from a commercial turkey farm in Dubois County has tested positive for a highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza, according to the Indiana State Board of Animal Health.
In a press release, the board of animal health said they were notified of the diagnosis by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory.
The avian influenza doesn't present a food safety risk and poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly, according to a press release. There haven't been any human cases of avian influenza viruses in the country.
Samples from the flock were delivered to the Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at Purdue University for testing after about 100 birds died, according to the release. The farm is under quarantine and the board is working with the industry to increase monitoring across the state.
This is the first case of avian influenza in commercial poultry since 2020 in the country, according to the release. It was last identified in commercial flocks in 2016 in Indiana.
The board of animal health is encouraging poultry owners to practice good biosecurity and know the signs of avian influenza. Illnesses and deaths should be reported to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline at 866-536-7593 where they will be routed to a state or federal veterinarian in Indiana for assessment.
The signs include:
- Sudden death without clinical signs
- Lack of energy or appetite
- Decreased egg production
- Soft-shelled or misshapen eggs
- Swelling or purple discoloration of head, eyelids, comb, hocks
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Incoordination
- Diarrhea
Dead birds should be double-bagged and refrigerated for possible testing, according to the release.
The board of animal health will post updates online.
-
1 dead after shooting near Frank & Judy O'Bannon Soccer Park
Just after midnight, IMPD officers were called to the 1500 block of Lewis Street on a report of a person shot.Mayor Hogsett addresses sexual misconduct allegations under his administration
Mayor Joe Hogsett vows he will not step down after lingering questions about the sexual misconduct allegations involving former administration staffers.Nightlight Christian Adoptions fundraiser is an effort to support foster kids
On Sunday, September 15, the agency is holding a fundraiser at Top Golf in Fishers from 3-6 p.m. Officials hope the event helps raise awareness for the need.Carmel Housing Task Force working to address rising home prices
The task force is an effort to bring more affordable housing options to those who live in the north Indianapolis suburb.