SOUTHWESTERN INDIANA — Several state officials and organizations have issued statements today in response to the confirmed case of high pathogenic avian influenza (H7N8) in a southern Indiana commercial turkey flock.

Mike Pence, governor of Indiana, issued the following statement in response to the discovery:

“Indiana is one of the largest poultry states in America, and I have directed all relevant agencies to bring the full resources of the state of Indiana to bear on containing and resolving the issue as quickly as possible.

“Multiple state agencies have been heavily focused for nearly a year on the necessary steps in this type of event, including the State Board of Animal Health, Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana State Poultry Association, and several private sector partners. Hoosiers can be assured that we are taking all precautions to contain the situation and minimize the effects to Indiana’s robust poultry industry.”

Sue Ellspermann, Lt. Governor, also issued a statement today, “Today we received verification that birds on a farm in Dubois County have contracted the Avian Flu. Under the leadership of our State Board of Animal Health and the USDA and with full cooperation of the Indiana poultry industry, Purdue University, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Agriculture and other state agencies, the appropriate measures are being implemented. Based on our experience last year in Whitley County, we know that with quick response and control measures, we can prevent further infections.

“To date, this strain of the avian flu has not posed a health risk to humans.  Further, it remains safe to purchase poultry and eggs for consumption,” continued Ellspermann. “All shipments of eggs and poultry are tested to ensure that products are free of avian flu before entering the food supply.”

Indiana State Board Of Animal Health notes the block was comprised of 60,000 commercial turkey. The facility is currently being depopulated and is the only facility in the state to report an outbreak.

To report dead poultry, contact  1-866-536-7593. To report the discovery of five or more dead birds, contact 812-334-1137 or email [email protected]. For more information, click here.