LITTLE ROCK, AR - The Arkansas Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Veterinary Services, has confirmed a case of avian influenza in a commercial poultry farm located in Madison County. The USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory has identified the presence of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (HPAI) within the poultry flock.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has assured the public that there is no cause for public health concern, as avian influenza does not impact the safety of poultry meat or egg products. Consumers can continue to enjoy these products without worry. In response to this development, multiple agencies, including the USDA, are working diligently to contain the situation.

"This disease has been immediately addressed, and we remain committed to collaborating with poultry growers, industry representatives, and laboratory partners to prevent its spread," stated Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. He further emphasized the safety of Arkansas poultry, urging consumers to have confidence in the food they eat.

To prevent the further spread of avian influenza to nearby flocks in the state, the affected poultry farm has been placed under quarantine. Arkansas State Veterinarian John Nilz confirmed this precautionary measure. Under the provisions of the Poultry Disease and Flock Condemnation Rule, several activities are prohibited within the affected area, which is a zone approximately 25 miles surrounding the farm where the case was discovered.

These prohibited activities include the exhibition of poultry and domestic waterfowl, the movement of poultry or domestic waterfowl, as well as the sale, barter, trade, auction, or giveaway of poultry or domestic waterfowl at fairs, swap meets, auctions, flea markets, and similar events and locations.

The boundaries of the affected area for the confirmed case in Madison County span from Gateway (northernmost) to Osage (easternmost), Combs (southernmost), and Harmon (westernmost). Any free-range or backyard poultry within this area, regardless of commercial or noncommercial use, must be confined under cover or inside structures to prevent potential contamination from migratory birds.

Residents with backyard flocks within the affected area who notice sick or unusual deaths among their poultry are strongly urged to report any incidents to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. They can either send an email to info@agriculture.arkansas.gov or call (501) 823-1746.

For more information on avian influenza and its impact, the USDA provides detailed resources at aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/ai. Additionally, for comprehensive guidelines on protecting poultry from avian diseases, including avian influenza, visit aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/defend-the-flock-program.

Authorities stress the importance of being vigilant and adhering to the preventive measures in place to halt the spread of avian influenza, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the poultry industry and consumers.