An avian flu outbreak that has struck in 21 states and caused the destruction of nearly 50 million chickens, one of the costliest animal health disasters in U.S. history, has not yet touched Tennessee, state officials say.
But the state Department of Agriculture plans to be ready for potential outbreaks. Starting Aug. 1, all out-of-state birds coming to Tennessee must have proof of a negative avian influenza test within 21 days of movement or National Poultry Improvement Plan AI Clean certification.
If avian flu is detected, Tennessee has prepared a multi-agency response plan that includes quarantine, testing, disposal, cleaning, disinfection and monitoring in affected areas.
Officials believe waterfowl migrating south from Canada are the source of the virus, which is not known to be communicable to humans. Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa have declared states of emergency. USDA response efforts have cost more than $400 million. The cost of dead poultry stands at $191 million and the total economic impact in Iowa alone is estimated at $957 million.