Keep in mind that avian influenza does not present a food safety risk, meaning people can still consume chicken and eggs.

News Release

ELKHART — Avian influenza, better known commonly as bird flu, has presented itself at yet another local farm. Now for a third time, a bird flu outbreak has been discovered on an Elkhart farm, bolstering a flock of an estimated 6,500 birds, which is 500 more than the last.

It is still unclear as to what will become of the ducks that have tested positive of the flu, but it still appears likely that the Indiana State Board of Animal Health will issue a statement once a full investigation of both farms has been completed and all tests are verified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Iowa.

Local poultry owners are still being urged to schedule a time to have their aviary friends tested for the flu as well. It still hasn’t been determined whether this strain is of the same virus currently found in 24 other states, but the agency feels it does not currently present an immediate health concern and no human has yet to be diagnosed with this particular flu.

It remains important to keep in mind when in an area of mostly farmland that it is illegal to give out information on specific farms, farmers and animals. People can be understandably worried for themselves and their friends and family, but any information regarding the specifics of these cases, or any cases prior or yet to come, are to be kept confidential.

It may also be of importance to remember that, again, avian influenza does not present a food safety risk, meaning you are still safe to enjoy chicken and eggs.

If you’d like to help, have something to report or want more information, this directory should help point you in the right direction:

Information concerning the testing of poultry and quarantine procedures:

Denise Derrer, Public Information Officer, Board of Animal Health, (317) 544 2414 or [email protected]

Education for Backyard/Hobby flocks:

Jeff Burbrink or Robert Kelly, Purdue Extension — Elkhart County — (574) 533-0554

Report illness and/or death to:

USDA Healthy Birds Hotline — (866) 536-7593

Backyard flocks needing to be tested (in the control zones and surveillance zones only):

BOAH — (317) 544-2387

The control zones (10km or 6.2 miles around the affected barn) are generally northeast of Goshen.