OHIO – On behalf of Ohio’s egg, chicken and turkey farmers, the Ohio Poultry Association (OPA) would like to thank everyone who has supported our farmers in responding to recent cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, also called HPAI or bird flu.
This is a devastating time for all Ohio poultry farmers, but especially for those who have faced the catastrophic consequences of bird flu on their farms. Despite comprehensive biosecurity measures, this strain of HPAI is both lethal and aggressive – and it has evaded even the best disease prevention practices.
OPA and our affected farmers have been grateful for local leaders in Darke and Mercer counties, including our dedicated county commissioners and area law enforcement, who have provided guidance and resources when needed. Our partnerships with the Ohio Department of Agriculture and USDA have made a critical difference in our ability to act swiftly to prevent further spread of HPAI.
We also recognize the incredible efforts of poultry farm employees, farm families and others in the community who have given both their time and their prayers during the HPAI detections and response work. We could not do it without all of you standing behind our farmers.
Egg, chicken and turkey farmers are both resilient and committed. All are working tirelessly to recover from this difficult time and to keep nutritious, high-protein eggs, chicken and turkey foods on the tables of Ohioans. We will, working together, get to the other side of this challenge.
