A flock of commercial poultry at a Cullman County farm has tested positive for low pathogenic avian influenza. The diagnosis was confirmed through Auburn University and the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa.
State agriculture officials say the low pathogenic strain of bird flu does not pose a risk to the food supply, and no affected poultry have entered the food chain. The risk of human infection with avian influenza during poultry outbreaks is very low, said State Veterinarian, Dr. Tony Frazier. “This probably means the flock will have to be de-populated. That determination is being made now,” said Daniel Autrey, chief of staff for State Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan. A “stop movement” order has been in place since March 15, banning all bird exhibitions of any kind until further notice. Read more