A turkey flock in south central Minnesota has been tested positive for the H7N9 strain of avian influenza. The birds in a commercial flock located in Meeker County, Minnesota appear healthy and show no sign of infection. The poultry on the premises have been quarantined by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health. The State Board of Animal Health has also established a surveillance zone around the operation.
BAH Assistant Director and Minnesota Poultry Testing Laboratory Director Dr. Dale Lauer says this development should serve as a reminder to all involved with animal agriculture the need to be vigilant in observing the strictest possible biosecurity to protect our animals.
Officials say the H7N9 avian influenza virus is different from the one that's caused problems in birds and humans mostly in Asia, and that the virus isn't a threat unless it mutates. Officials add bird flu in domestic poultry is not unusual and it's still safe to eat Minnesota turkey.
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