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JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. — Oregon is not exempt from the latest outbreaks of Avian ‘flu sweeping across the country.
A farm in Jackson County has been placed under quarantine after a flock of geese and chickens were infected. All poultry on the farm has been euthanized by a team from the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA).
None of the Farm Animals Entered the Food Chain
An assurance has been given that none of the animals from the Jackson County farm entered the food chain.
The most recent outbreak is the first highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) confirmed in Jackson County.
Crook County Farm Infected Last Month
At the end of October, an outbreak of HPAI was reported on a farm in Crook County by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory – 70 birds and five pigs were euthanized. At least one of the pigs was exposed to infected chickens and ducks.
The latest outbreak brings Oregon’s tally of HPAI infections since May 2022 to 38 backyard and three commercial poultry flocks.
Infected Eggs and Meat is Safe to Eat if Properly Cooked
The ODA assures consumers that HPAI-infected eggs and meat are safe to eat if properly prepared and cooked.
The ODA says there are precautions to limit the Avian flu outbreak.
Keepers of domestic poultry and livestock must ensure that there is no co-mingling of species. Domestic animals must not mingle with wildlife, particularly wild waterfowl.
Hygiene is also important. The ODA says people must wash their hands before and after working with flocks, clothes encountering animals must be changed, all equipment involved in the care of animals must be kept clean, unnecessary visitors must be limited, and foot baths must be provided for sanitizing footwear.
Wild Birds Spread the Virus During Migration
Outbreaks of Avian ‘flue are more prevalent in fall and springtime when wild birds spread the virus during migration to seasonal homes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The public is asked to report deaths and illnesses among domestic flocks of chickens, ducks, and geese by calling the ODA on 503 986 4711 or 1-800-347-7028.
The death of wild birds must be reported to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-866-968-2600 or email [email protected].
Backyard flock protection tips are available online at the ODA’s Avian Influenza or in Spanish at Avian Influenza-Spanish.
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