By Blake Jackson
Josh Shapiro announced that his administration is increasing resources to combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and support poultry producers across Pennsylvania.
Following a recent surge in cases, the Commonwealth is deploying more personnel, boosting testing capacity, and strengthening coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and industry partners.
Beginning immediately, 42 USDA staff members are joining 55 state veterinarians and agriculture employees, four specialists from Penn State Extension, and three members of the Pennsylvania National Guard Civil Support Team.
Up to six additional Commonwealth employees will also assist response operations, while officials work to secure more resources to enhance high-volume testing and enforce strict biosecurity measures.
Governor Shapiro met with agricultural leaders to outline the state’s response and discuss further collaboration to limit the virus’s spread. Poultry producers and related businesses are being urged to remain vigilant and strengthen on-farm biosecurity protocols.
“Since day one, my Administration has worked aggressively to support Pennsylvania poultry farmers and reduce the spread of Hi-Path Avian Influenza – and today, we are deploying more resources to address this challenge head on. Under the leadership of Secretary Russell Redding, we are working collaboratively with our federal partners, local communities, and the poultry industry on a coordinated response and we will continue to make available the resources necessary to mitigate the impacts of HPAI,” said Governor Shapiro.
“I know farmers are worried given the recent increase in cases, but I want them to know that my Administration is standing with them and continuing our aggressive response to protect Pennsylvania flocks.”
Since the outbreak began in February 2022, more than 14.3 million birds have been lost statewide, including roughly half since the start of 2026.
Response teams are currently managing 21 sites affecting 7.2 million birds. Expanded lab capacity and new funding initiatives are also strengthening Pennsylvania’s preparedness for future agricultural disease threats.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Poultry