The Tennessee State Veterinarian is lifting statewide poultry restrictions following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) last month in a backyard flock in Obion County, Tenn.
Although the affected site remains under quarantine, movement permits are no longer required for poultry moving into or out of the control zone of 10 km (6.2 miles) surrounding the site. Poultry shows, exhibitions, and sales can now also resume statewide. However, poultry owners are reminded to maintain strong biosecurity procedures, remain vigilant, and report signs of illness in their birds.
HPAI does not pose a food safety risk, however, no infected poultry are ever allowed to enter the food supply. Poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly. The risk of human infection with avian influenza during poultry outbreaks is very low. In fact, no transmission to humans was reported during the outbreak that affected commercial poultry farms in Tennessee in 2017.
Owners of backyard and commercial poultry flocks should continue to closely observe domesticated birds, practice good biosecurity and report a sudden increase in the number of sick birds or bird deaths to the Tennessee State Veterinarian’s office at 615- 837-5120 and/or USDA at 1-866-536-7593.