April 23, 2015 [h=1]UK Ag specialists urge proactive approach to bird flu outbreak[/h]
By
Aimee Nielson
UK poultry specialist Tony Pescatore said that while the millions of sick birds mentioned in the media may sound astounding, they represent only about 1 percent of the total poultry population in the United States.
?I?m not trying to minimize it,? he said. ?This is a big deal, and it?s hitting some commercial growers very hard.
We have a lot of poultry growers in Kentucky with very large flocks, quite a few small flocks and backyard flock owners who are concerned as well.?
Pescatore urged all growers to follow some simple FLU biosecurity and prevention guidelines.
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The UK VDL will test up to three birds for a $40 fee. The UK VDL and the Murray State University Breathitt Veterinary Lab are both certified through the National Animal Health Laboratory Network to handle HPAI cases.
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Our two Kentucky labs are certified, fully trained, supplied and ready to respond should an outbreak occur in our state,? said Craig Carter, UK VDL director. ?The Kentucky Poultry Federation, the office of the Kentucky State Veterinarian and the Kentucky poultry industry are on very high alert, and we are all working closely together.?...
