State emergency declared as bird flu ravages poultry farm
By Farms.com
Colorado has been hit by a devastating bird flu outbreak, leading to the culling of nearly 1.8 million chickens and the declaration of a disaster emergency.
The outbreak, centered in Weld County—the state's largest agricultural area—has prompted significant concern among agricultural and public health officials.
The state has enacted a quarantine in affected areas to limit the movement of poultry and reduce the spread of the virus.
This measure is part of broader efforts to manage the outbreak, which has also seen avian influenza cases in dairy cows—a concerning development for a state significant in dairy production.
The response includes leveraging state resources to support containment efforts at impacted farms and to ensure that the public is informed and protected.
State epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy has highlighted that while the virus is spreading among animals, it is not yet a threat of human-to-human transmission. Nonetheless, individuals who frequently interact with affected livestock are advised to take preventive measures.
This outbreak is part of a broader national issue, with bird flu detected in multiple states across the U.S., affecting both poultry and dairy sectors.
Colorado officials continue to monitor and respond to these developments, emphasizing public safety and the health of the state's agricultural economy.