Pennsylvania Bolsters Biosecurity Amid Avian Influenza Threat

Pennsylvania officials have intensified their response to the ongoing threat of avian influenza, a critical issue for the state’s poultry industry, valued at approximately $7.1 billion. During a recent tour of the Pennsylvania Veterinary Laboratory, Deputy Secretary for Animal Health and Food Safety Lisa Graybeal underscored the importance of early testing and stringent biosecurity measures in combating the disease. This announcement comes on the heels of confirmed infections at six poultry farms in Lancaster County, affecting nearly 58,000 birds.

Since the resurgence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in February 2022, Pennsylvania has faced significant losses, with over 7.1 million birds affected across 100 flocks in 23 counties. This situation marks one of the most severe animal health crises in the state’s history. Graybeal attributed the state’s coordinated efforts and substantial investments in laboratory testing to minimizing losses and maintaining public confidence in the safety of Pennsylvania’s poultry products.

“Testing to monitor and detect avian influenza has been an indispensable tool to minimize damage during what has been the biggest animal health crisis in American history,” Graybeal stated. “Our veterinary teams, farmers, and state partners have shown unwavering commitment to recovery and prevention.”

Laboratory Support and Funding Initiatives

Pennsylvania’s three diagnostic laboratories located in Harrisburg, University Park, and Kennett Square have processed over 672,000 animal health samples in the past year. A fourth laboratory, currently undergoing renovations at Penn State’s Beaver Campus, is expected to enhance testing capacity and reduce response times once operational. This facility is backed by a $6 million investment in the 2024-25 budget, with an additional $2 million proposed for next year’s operations.

State Veterinarian Dr. Alex Hamberg emphasized the equal importance of on-farm biosecurity alongside laboratory testing. “When every farm has a biosecurity plan and everyone who enters follows it, disease risks are lower and recovery is quicker,” he noted.

To support affected producers, the Shapiro Administration has allocated nearly $15.7 million in HPAI Recovery Grants to 292 applicants, with $59.6 million still available in reserve. The administration’s budget proposal for 2025-26 includes an additional $11 million to sustain ongoing recovery and prevention initiatives.

Future Challenges and Economic Impact

As migratory birds, known carriers of avian influenza, pass through the region, experts warn that the coming months will be pivotal. Renewed infections could disrupt poultry exports, tighten egg supplies, and potentially raise food prices. Nevertheless, the state’s expanded testing network and financial support are anticipated to mitigate economic disruptions and ensure long-term stability within the poultry sector.

With poultry ranking among the top agricultural sectors in Pennsylvania, maintaining consumer confidence and resilience among farmers is a high priority. The state’s comprehensive surveillance and funding strategies may serve as a model for other agricultural regions facing similar biosecurity threats.