Pennsylvania Enhances Biosecurity Amid Avian Influenza Risk

State agriculture officials in Pennsylvania have intensified efforts to combat the ongoing threat of avian influenza, a situation that jeopardizes 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 as the principal defenses against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

The announcement followed the confirmation of new infections at six poultry farms in Lancaster County, impacting nearly 58,000 birds. Since the current HPAI outbreak began in February 2022, Pennsylvania has lost over 7.1 million birds across approximately 100 flocks in 23 counties, marking one of the largest animal health crises in the state’s history.

Graybeal credited the state’s collaborative approach and investments in laboratory testing for reducing losses and maintaining public trust in the safety of Pennsylvania 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,” she stated. “Our veterinary teams, farmers, and state partners have shown unwavering commitment to recovery and prevention.”

Strengthening Laboratory Capacity and Biosecurity Measures

The state operates three diagnostic facilities located in Harrisburg, University Park, and Kennett Square, which processed over 672,000 animal health samples in the past year. A fourth facility, currently under renovation at Penn State’s Beaver Campus, is set to enhance capacity and expedite response times once operational. This expansion is supported by a $6 million investment in the 2024-25 budget and an additional $2 million proposed for the following fiscal year.

State Veterinarian Dr. Alex Hamberg emphasized the critical role of on-farm biosecurity measures. “When every farm has a biosecurity plan and everyone who enters follows it, disease risks are lower and recovery is quicker,” Hamberg remarked.

In response to the challenges faced by 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 recovery and prevention initiatives.

Future Risks and Economic Implications

Industry leaders have praised the sustained support from the state, describing it as essential for the poultry sector’s resilience. “Pennsylvania has set a gold standard for animal disease response,” said Chris Herr, Executive Vice President of PennAg Industries. “Our labs, grants, and coordinated response ensure that poultry farmers can recover and stay in business.”

Experts caution that the upcoming months will be critical, as migratory birds, known to be significant carriers of HPAI, traverse through the region. Renewed infections could disrupt poultry exports, tighten egg supplies, and elevate food prices. Nevertheless, the state’s expanded testing network and recovery funding are anticipated to alleviate economic repercussions and safeguard the long-term stability of the industry.

With poultry among Pennsylvania’s leading agricultural sectors, ensuring consumer confidence and farmer resilience remains a top priority. The state’s comprehensive surveillance and funding model may also provide a blueprint for other agricultural regions facing similar biosecurity challenges.