FIRST CASE OF BIRD FLU CONFIRMED THIS SPRING

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has made its first appearance in Minnesota this spring. State officials say the virus was confirmed last week in a flock of nearly 63,000 commercial turkey meat birds. The flock was placed under quarantine on Thursday, April 16th. This marks the first case in Minnesota since two flocks were affected in Meeker County back on January 16th. With spring migration now underway, the risk of avian influenza increases as wild birds return. Minnesota Turkey Growers Association Executive Director Ashley Kohls says producers across the state have been on heightened alert. Last year 23 commercial poultry flocks in Minnesota tested positive for HPAI.