Avian flu detected in Pennsylvania live bird markets

Pennsylvania agriculture officials are tracking avian flu after cases were found in live bird markets. The virus was detected in poultry at two markets in Philadelphia and one in Lehigh County. The positive tests occurred in flocks of birds. A market in Philadelphia had 420 birds infected on February 24, and another market reported 1,100 infected birds on March 12. In Lehigh County, 350 birds tested positive on March 13. To stop the spread, affected flocks are usually killed. The state has implemented quarantine orders and testing in response to the situation. So far, there have been no human cases of avian flu in Pennsylvania since the outbreak began in 2022. Nationwide, there have been 70 human infections and one death linked to the virus. The current cases in live bird markets are the second and third instances of avian flu in Philadelphia. Earlier, a wild bird in West Philadelphia tested positive. Health officials say the live market cases pose a lower risk to the public, as the birds are processed on-site before being sold. City health officials reassure the public that dead birds do not efficiently transmit the virus. They stress the importance of food safety precautions. People who closely handle infected birds may be at higher risk, but the health department is monitoring market workers and providing antiviral medication as needed. To minimize risk, residents should ensure poultry is cooked to safe temperatures. Also, the health department advises avoiding raw milk products, as pasteurization helps kill harmful pathogens. They provide guidance for safe handling of birds on their website.