Animal disease experts have expressed concern over the spread of avian flu in the Bay Area after two farms were forced to euthanize approximately 250,000 birds this week. The decision to euthanize the birds was made after they tested positive for the avian flu, with concerns growing about the virus spreading further. The cases were confirmed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, following positive avian flu tests in two farms in Sonoma County.
Mike Weber, a third-generation Sonoma County egg farmer and co-owner of Sunrise Farms, shared the devastating impact of the outbreak. He stated, “It’s just been devastating for us, nothing but devastating.” Weber’s farm had to euthanize over 80,000 chickens, but he noted that his neighbor’s duck farm was hit even harder, losing their entire operation of 170,000 ducks. These ducks are highly sought after across the state.
This recent outbreak of avian flu in California comes shortly after state wildlife agencies announced the development of a new vaccine, currently in the early stages of testing. While the vaccine has shown promise in protecting against bird flu, it has not yet received formal approval.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the strain of avian flu detected in these cases is considered to have low risk to human health. However, it is a highly contagious and often fatal disease for birds. In order to prevent further spread, the California Department of Food and Agriculture made the decision to euthanize the 250,000 birds that tested positive for the avian flu.
Poultry owners in California are being urged by the Department of Food and Agriculture to report any unusual or suspicious illness or deaths in their flocks to the CDFA Sick Bird Hotline.
While the avian flu outbreak poses a significant threat to the poultry industry in the Bay Area, experts are working diligently to contain the virus and protect bird flocks. The impact of this outbreak on local farms and the potential economic consequences are of great concern to the affected farmers and the broader agricultural community.
