USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) said on June 19 that its National Veterinary Services Laboratory has confirmed the presence of H7N7 avian influenza antibodies from samples taken at a commercial breeder flock, which produces hatching eggs, at an operation in Scott County, Arkansas. APHIS said the detection is presumed to be low pathogenic based on mortality, morbidity and egg-production levels in the flock. Under guidelines of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), countries must report any detection of H5 or H7 subtypes of avian influenza in commercial flocks, which APHIS did last week.
All birds in the flock where the birds tested positive have been euthanized, and all poultry within a 6.2 mile-radius of the area of infection tested negative for avian influenza, according to Preston Scroggin, Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission director. Crews from the Arkansas commission and also USDA will remain on the scene to assess the situation, which appears to be under control.
As a result of the Arkansas avian influenza, several export markets have implemented bans after the H7N7 detection. Japan has banned raw poultry and table egg imports from Arkansas, along with hatching eggs and day-old chicks. Although the ban on Arkansas poultry and breeding stock took effect on June 20, Japan has applied the ban to loads packed and shipped on or after May 16.
Under an agreement with Russia, APHIS notified Russia that exports of Arkansas poultry to Russia would be stopped immediately. If Russia takes no additional action, the suspension can be lifted in 90 days after the last positive sample is detected.
Hong Kong, Singapore, Tahiti, and Taiwan have also imposed bans on either the State of Arkansas or Scott County. China has not at this point imposed a ban on Arkansas poultry, despite some erroneous reports to the contrary earlier this week. However, following a previous incident of avian influenza in Arkansas, China imposed a ban that lasted five years, until it was finally lifted last month.
As a result of improved trade relations between Mexico and the United States, and the fact that Mexico is dealing with its own avian influenza issues, the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council said it expects few disruptions with Mexico. However, Mexico has requested additional information from APHIS on the detection of avian influenza in Arkansas.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service has updated the Export Library with information and specific requirements on all current bans.
