By Blake Jackson
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has confirmed the first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in domestic poultry for 2025.
The affected flock, consisting of 50,000-layer chickens, is located on a commercial farm in Lehigh County.
Initial testing at a Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System (PADLS) facility detected the H5, 2.3.4.4 strain, with samples sent to the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory for further confirmation.
State and federal agencies have mobilized a response team to contain the outbreak. The farm has been quarantined, and movement restrictions are in place for poultry products within a 10-kilometer radius.
While HPAI poses no risk to public health and properly cooked poultry products remain safe to consume, the virus is highly contagious and often fatal to domestic birds.
There have been no reported cases of HPAI in Pennsylvania’s dairy cattle or humans. While infections have been detected in dairy herds in western states, cattle experience less severe effects. Pasteurized milk remains safe for consumption.
Since the HPAI outbreak began in 2022, Pennsylvania has remained vigilant in its testing and containment efforts. The last commercial poultry case in the state was recorded in February 2024, while a backyard flock in Venango County tested positive in October 2024.
The state has implemented strict testing measures for poultry and dairy cattle, including prohibiting lactating dairy cows from infected states from entering Pennsylvania.
“Protecting our poultry and dairy industries has been and continues to be Pennsylvania’s top priority. With this confirmed positive infection in Pennsylvania and confirmed infections in poultry in surrounding states, the threat is clear and heightened. Vigilant biosecurity on both poultry and dairy farms and on any farm that raises birds is the key to minimizing the spread of the virus,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said.
“Throughout the outbreak, the Shapiro Administration has worked to protect Pennsylvania farmers and our dairy and poultry industries from HPAI. Our close coordination and support from the federal government has been critical, and we must continue working together at all levels to combat this virus.”
To support affected farmers, Pennsylvania established a $31 million special fund to assist with testing, biosecurity improvements, and reimbursement for losses.
Investments also include expanded veterinary lab services and research into advanced disease detection technologies.
Farmers suspecting HPAI in their poultry should contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of Animal Health at 717-772-2852, option 1. Sick or dead wild birds should be reported to the PA Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Poultry