SIOUX CITY, Iowa (Iowa Media Wire) — After the USDA confirmed a positive case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock, Governor Kim Reynolds has authorized a Disaster Proclamation for Cherokee County.
According to a release, the proclamation will be in effect immediately through July 2. The declaration allows the state to utilize resources from Iowa Homeland Security, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and other agencies.
These resources will assist with rapid detection, tracking and monitoring, containment, disposal, and disinfection of HPAI. Additionally, the proclamation waives regulatory provisions related to commercial vehicles responding to affected sites.
The release noted that there is no immediate public health concerns and it remains safe to eat poultry products.
Producers who suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks should contact their veterinarian immediately.