Two more Minnesota turkey flocks infected by bird flu

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the detection of a lethal strain of avian flu in two more commercial turkey flocks in Minnesota.

One of the strains has been found in a previously established quarantine zone.

The infected flocks have been found in the biggest turkey-producing counties in the state, Kandiyohi and Stearns.

Until now, seven flocks in Minnesota had been infected by the flu. Around 150,000 birds had to be culled in the state last week.

The USDA confirmed that both the flocks will be culled to prevent them from entering the food supply chain.

While officials are not sure about how the virus is spreading into commercial poultry operations, they are guessing there is a possibility of it spreading via waterfowl.

The Reuters quoted data from the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, which said Minnesota produces almost 46 million birds every year, that account for more than $600m in income.

Out of its total turkey products, 90% processed in the US are shipped from Minnesota; with 15% exported abroad.

Close to 40 countries have banned poultry imports from the state after first detection of the flu, affecting sales of companies including Tyson Foods, Pilgrim’s Pride and Sanderson Farms.

Besides Minnesota, the strain has also been found in Arkansas and Oregon, which led to an import ban from leading poultry producers.

Currently, USDA is also working on a vaccine to prevent the flu from spreading further, though the department does not intend to make it available commercially.

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Image: Two more commercial turkey flocks in Minnesota have been infected by avian flu. Photo: courtesy of getye1/freeimages.com.