from the Ohio Department of Agriculture

(12-31-24) The National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed an HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) detection in Darke County on Dec. 27, 2024 involving 931,302 commercial layers (chickens). ODA does not identify individual farms during active cases. Our HPAI page provides updates any time there is a positive detection in Ohio poultry under the ‘Tracking HPAI Across Ohio’ section.

When there is a detection, ODA quarantines the facility, and birds are depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. A control area and surveillance zone is set up to monitor other facilities nearby and USDA guidelines are followed. We urge all Ohio farmers and producers to review their biosecurity practices. Resources for producers are also available on ODA’s HPAI page.

According to the CDC, the current risk to the general public is low.

According to the USDA, HPAI cannot be transmitted through properly cooked meats or eggs. Products from any HPAI-affected flocks are prohibited from entering the food system. As a reminder, the proper handling and cooking of all poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 ˚F is recommended as a general food safety precaution.