By Andi Anderson
Ohio, the second-largest egg-producing state, is facing a serious bird flu outbreak, leading the nation in both cases and bird losses. State officials and agricultural experts are working to contain the disease and reduce its impact on the poultry industry.
Brian Baldridge, Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, has highlighted ongoing state efforts to manage the outbreak. Strict biosecurity measures, early detection, and culling infected flocks are key strategies being implemented.
Dr. Timothy McDermott, assistant professor at Ohio State University Extension, explains that bird flu spreads quickly through wild birds and contaminated farm equipment. Preventing exposure is critical to controlling the disease.
Jim Chakeres, executive vice president of the Ohio Poultry Association, emphasizes the importance of biosecurity protocols. Poultry farms are enhancing cleaning procedures and limiting farm access to reduce the risk of infection.
Tara C. Smith, an infectious disease epidemiologist at Kent State University, states that while bird flu does not typically infect humans, monitoring is essential to prevent any risks to public health.
The outbreak has also affected egg prices, which have remained high due to supply shortages. Experts predict prices may stabilize once the outbreak is controlled and flocks are replenished.
With strong state action and farm-level biosecurity measures, Ohio officials are working to minimize bird flu’s impact and protect the state’s poultry industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle