On Monday, May 2, PA Department of Agriculture’s Department of Lab Servicesreported a non-negative PCR result for Avian Influenza, H5, 2.3.4.4 on a meat duck/breeder duck premises in Berks County, Tilden Township.A new control area and surveillance zone has been created around this premises, and theControl Zone Address Checker map on the PADLS website has been updated with the NVSL confirmation to reflect the addition.
Here is a recent screenshot of the areas affected. Please use the link for further information on this and additional outbreaks.
Poultry in the Surveillance (25km) and Control (10 km) Zones will need to be tested for Avian Influenza, H5, 2.3.4.4. The testing guidelines form can be found here. Any movement of poultry, eggs, poultry products, or manure in the Control Zone will need a permit. These protocols apply to both commercial and backyard flocks.
Test Drop Off Site
The PA Department of Agriculture has established a test drop off site, starting Friday May 6th, at the Hamburg State Police Barracks, 90 Industrial Drive Hamburg, PA, off of Rt. 61 and Exit 29 on 1-78, behind Burger King and Murphy Jewelers. Lab staff will be collecting tests between 8am – 9:30am, 7 days a week. Further questions on testing requirements should be directed towards the Bureau of Animal Health & Diagnostic Services, (717) 772-2852, RA-ahds@pa.gov.
Biosecurity is the first line of defense to stop the spread of Avian Influenza. Penn State Extension has compiled a step-by-step biosecurity precautions guide to help farmers and non-farmers (including service reps) understand how to best approach visits to farms.
Biosecurity Signage
Be sure to post biosecurity signage on your property and follow these simple instructions to protect yourself, your family, your employees, and your livestock.
Be safe and help stop the spread of Avian Flu.
A cooperative effort between
the GRCA and the Berks County Department of Agriculture
through the support of the Berks County Commissioners.
