Oregon Dept. of Agriculture issues emergency rules for livestock fairs, shows to reduce risk of avian influenza transmission

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZZ) The Oregon Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday it has taken proactive steps by issuing emergency rules for livestock fairs and shows this summer to reduce the risk of avian influenza, often referred to as "bird flu."

The rules are a measure to prevent the introduction of High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) into an exhibition while also providing a framework to mitigate the risk of transmission between livestock and, ultimately, to people if HPAI is introduced.

While ODA has reported 38 HPAI cases in poultry, the virus has not been detected in Oregon cattle. The strain of HPAI detected in livestock is the same strain (H5N1) that has been circulating in wild waterfowl in Oregon and throughout the US.  

Rule Overview

“Influenza susceptible animals”: livestock species known to be susceptible to infection with zoonic influenza viruses through respiratory spread or as asymptomatic carriers. Includes waterfowl and other poultry, dairy cattle, and swine. 

• Rules apply only to exhibitions where influenza animals will be present.
• Exhibitions must register with ODA.
• Exhibitions must retain records of animals and exhibitors for 90 days.
• Records are only available to ODA upon request if a disease outbreak occurs.
• Exhibitions must have at least one “veterinarian of record” consulted in planning and can provide veterinary care if needed during the exhibition.
• Sick animals are not allowed at the exhibition.
• Influenza-susceptible species must be separated.

Lactating dairy cattle:

• May not be milked in areas directly accessible to the general public (at least 10 feet separation required)
• Must have a negative HPAI test within ten days before arrival at the exhibition
• ODA will provide testing supplies, shipping, and testing free of charge

Waterfowl:

• May not be provided open water to swim in swimming pools
• Must have a negative HPAI test within ten days before arrival at the exhibition
• ODA will provide testing supplies, shipping, and testing free of charge

Exhibitions open to the general public:

• Must provide hand washing/sanitation stations at exits from influenza susceptible animal areas
• Must provide signage regarding the risk of entering an animal area
• Signage must be provided to encourage hand washing at exits from animal areas.

HPAI outbreaks among domestic poultry have been occurring since early 2022. Oregon has had 38 cases of HPAI in domestic poultry since May 2022, most recently this March.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) wants to reassure the public that the risk of HPAI to the general public remains low and the commercial food supply is safe.