Be Alert, Not Alarmed: Officials stress food supply remains safe amid HPAI

Recent outbreaks of High Path Avian Flu have caught the attention of the entire ag industry. However, since the start, officials have stressed the food supply remains safe. That is still the case, and the CDC wants to remind everyone to be alert, not alarmed.

The poultry industry has been dealing with the outbreak since early 2022. Since March of this year, more than 90 farms across 12 states have reported cases in dairy herds. Three humans have also contracted the virus with minimal symptoms.

The CDC says the data should be taken in context, and there is no need to be alarmed. Right now, farm workers are the only ones who need to be alert and considered at high risk of infection.

Currently, the only way to catch HPAI is direct contact with infected animals.

Related Stories
High Path Avian Influenza has significantly impacted poultry and egg prices recently. Will consumers face the same pressures this Thanksgiving?
In Texas, there are about 800 contract broiler and turkey farms. RFD NEWS Correspondent Tammi Arender had the chance to meet with Jerry Moody, who has been in the chicken business all of his life.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.