A strain of avian influenza, or bird flu, responsible for several outbreaks of the disease around the country has now been confirmed in Moniteau County. The identification on Tuesday, March 10, of the H5N2 strain in a Fortuna poultry facility on Newkirk Road which houses a flock of more than 21,000 birds marked the second instance of the disease in Missouri. The first instance of such an outbreak was confirmed in a flock of more than 30,000 birds at Asbury, near Carthage, in Jasper County on Sunday, March 8.
Missouri agricultural officials have confirmed the presence of the avian influenza, but stated that there is no immediate public health concern. Although the disease is a naturally occurring virus, lethal to birds, and may be spread by wildlife, no human cases have been found.
Outbreaks of a strain of avian flu have occurred in Minnesota, Oregon, Washington and Idaho and are not considered to be a threat to public health or the food supply.
According to a spokesperson for Cargill, Inc., Wichita, KS., the Moniteau County location raises turkeys for Cargill. He stated, "Upon notification, Cargill implemented its avian influenza protocols, which include testing flocks at other Cargill growers within 12 miles of the infected farm, as well as vehicle and equipment sanitation, restricted movement of animals, eggs, feed, litter and other related materials and collaboration with all appropriate government agencies, industry organizations and our turkey farmers. Â De-populating the infected farm has been initiated and will be completed by Thursday. Â No other Missouri farms that raise turkeys for Cargill have thus far tested positive."
The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) reported that it continues to follow strict protocols to contain and eliminate the disease, which include quarantine of the facilities. The turkeys remaining in the flocks confirmed positive for the virus will not enter the food system.
MDA follows USDA protocols. Surveillance and testing procedures are ongoing at properties near the affected facilities to ensure that the virus has not spread.
According to MDA, chicken and other poultry products are safe to eat if properly handled and cooked. Any movement of poultry or poultry products from the quarantined zones is prohibited.
The department requests that sick birds or unusual bird deaths be reported to state or federal officials: MDA at 573-751-3377 or USDA 1-866-536-7593.
Poultry affected by avian influenza can show many symptoms, including de]creased food consumption, huddling, depression, closed eyes, respiratory sings such as coughing or sneezing, decreased egg production, watery greenish diarrhea, excessive thirst, swollen wattles and combs, high mortality and sudden death.