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Hoping weather helps to slow the virus’ spread

chicken barn-nuformdirect

The H5N2 Avian Influenza virus is a foreign animal disease that was first diagnosed in the northwest United States several months ago and has moved quickly across the country.

Indiana state veterinarian Dr. Bret Marsh says determining how the virus got into commercial poultry operations has been a challenge.  “It’s believe the virus is moved through migratory waterfowl,” he says.  “And yet we haven’t been able to definitively link this disease to the wild waterfowl – even though we know it exists in those populations.”

Marsh tells Brownfield as the weather warms, officials hope the spread of the disease slows.  “Fortunately, these viruses don’t live for long periods of time in the environment,” he says.  “Cooler, damp weather will allow that virus to live for longer periods of time exposed to the environment.  But, as we approach warmer weather here in Indiana, we’re hopeful that if indeed it should show up here it won’t live as long if the temperatures are warmer and it’s drier.”

He says the best way prevent avian influenza on poultry operations is to practice strict and even enhance biosecurity measures.

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