Illinois State Veterinarian: Most HPAI cases have been from “point source introduction”

This year’s High Pathogenic Avian Influenza outbreak has broken the 2015 record, with more than 52.7 million birds now lost.

An outbreak was recently reported in Illinois, with 8,000 game birds infected at a commercial facility.

Illinois State Veterinarian, Dr. Mark Ernst spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander about what type of loss he has seen in his region, what he is seeing that made us surpass the 2015 record, how producers are coping, and what problems this is creating for the poultry sector.

For more information, click HERE.

Related Stories
Better yield measurement means fairer grids, more precise breeding targets, and more dollars for truly efficient cattle.
Large animal veterinarian Dr. Rosalyn Biggs with Oklahoma State University warns producers may not be prepared for the real threat of New World Screwworm.
Considering raising your own replacements instead of buying bred heifers? Three key factors to consider before investing capital.
Reliable, clearly graded middle meats still anchor demand; programs that deliver consistent eating quality and simple, confidence-building menus capture more repeat visits—and more value—back through the beef chain.
Crop insurance remains a vital tool for managing climate-driven risk.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
Read the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s official press release published on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.
Lewie Pugh with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) discusses the gap in truck driver education programs and how it impacts road safety and supply chain economics.
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.