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USDA prepares for avian flu to reach ALL flyways

turkey farmThe nation’s top veterinarian tells egg producers he expects the avian influenza virus will be in the fourth flyway this fall, along with the others.

WATT Ag Net says Dr. John Clifford, USDA Veterinarian, said the USDA is preparing for the worst. Speaking to members of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC), Clifford said the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is preparing for the virus to occur in all poultry sectors:  turkeys, egg layers and broilers – all across the country.

Clifford said he hopes the high-path virus is “overtaken” by a low-path strain of avian flu and “ceases to exist in the wild bird populations” but it’s anyone’s guess how long that could take.

Until then, he says, investment in biosecurity improvements is crucial and could be up to $2 Billion spent by USDA.

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