Reported case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza confirmed in Gibson County

GIBSON COUNTY, Tenn. — State health officials are sharing that the Tennessee state veterinarian has reported a suspected detection of “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, HPAI” in West Tennessee.

According to a release from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, this affected a commercial chicken facility in Gibson county.

A person familiar with the situation says “The bird flu was discovered late last night and U-S-D-A was on ground this morning. Along with that, the farm is under quarantine.”

The State Department of Agriculture shared following a sudden spike of deaths from the flocks and testing was done to determine the cause. However, as of now, the exact strain of bird flu is unknown. Health officials say this illness is highly transmissible and is known to be deadly for domesticated birds.

The birds can be exposed to human interactions and through contact with wild birds. According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, animal health officials have established a 6.2 mile control zone surrounding the affected facility. In this zone, poultry will be tested and monitored for illness.

Animal health staff members will be reaching out to poultry owners within the control zone to explain the situation and answer questions. Health officials say this Avian Influenza does not pose a food risk and no infected poultry will be allowed to enter the food supply.

They are sharing that poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly.

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