HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture last week confirmed the state’s first Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) case of 2025. The detection was made in a 50,000-bird commercial poultry farm in Lehigh County, marking a critical moment in the ongoing efforts to protect the state’s agriculture sector. Preliminary testing was conducted by the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System (PADLS), with final confirmation pending from the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory.
The Department has immediately quarantined the affected farm along with all poultry facilities within a 10-kilometer radius. Movement of poultry products in this zone has been restricted to contain the spread of the virus. While HPAI is highly infectious and often fatal to domestic birds, the Department assured that there is no public health risk and that poultry products and eggs remain safe for consumption if cooked properly.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding emphasized the importance of vigilance. “Protecting our poultry and dairy industries has been, and continues to be Pennsylvania’s top priority,” he stated. “With this confirmed positive infection in Pennsylvania and confirmed infections in poultry in surrounding states, the threat is clear and heightened. Vigilant biosecurity on both poultry and dairy farms and on any farm that raises birds is the key to minimizing the spread of the virus. Throughout the outbreak, the Shapiro Administration has worked to protect Pennsylvania farmers and our dairy and poultry industries from HPAI. Our close coordination and support from the federal government has been critical, and we must continue working together at all levels to combat this virus.”
Pennsylvania had been on heightened alert since the initial outbreak of HPAI in 2022, with this being the first commercial poultry detection since February 2024. A similar domestic bird case had been recorded in a backyard flock in Venango County in October 2024. The state has taken robust measures throughout this period, including quarantines tailored to evolving circumstances, rigorous testing protocols, and restrictions on transporting poultry from infected zones.
The Shapiro Administration has undertaken several strategic initiatives to safeguard the state’s agriculture sector. This includes allocating $31 million to assist poultry farmers affected by avian influenza, supporting biosecurity improvements, and reimbursing losses not covered by the federal government. Efforts have also included the expansion of veterinary laboratory services in Western Pennsylvania to accelerate disease diagnostics and response capabilities. Additionally, investments in advanced disease detection technology aim to prevent future outbreaks.
No cases of HPAI have been detected in Pennsylvania dairy cattle, although infections in dairy operations have been reported in western states. The Department has actively tested and restricted movement of lactating dairy cattle from infected out-of-state farms. Milk from Pennsylvania farms remains safe for consumption due to mandatory pasteurization.
To protect public health and farm workers, the Administration has collaborated with the USDA, CDC, FDA, and other partners. Free personal protective equipment and regular updates for farmers are part of this effort, coordinated by the PA Centers for Dairy and Poultry Excellence alongside other agriculture-focused organizations.
With plans for continued surveillance, education, and strict biosecurity protocols, the Department’s comprehensive response serves as a model for mitigating risks posed by HPAI. The planned measures include regular testing, public engagement, and management practices to reinforce disease prevention on farms.
Looking ahead, Pennsylvania’s efforts to support its poultry and dairy industries highlight the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. By building robust defenses against such outbreaks, the state aims to safeguard one of its most vital economic sectors while protecting public confidence in its food supply.
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