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SAC CITY – Bird flu has been detected in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
This is the eighth case of the disease, formally known as highly pathogenic avian influenza, detected in Iowa this year.
Human health is not threatened by the disease, according to the department. It reported that eggs and poultry remain safe to eat.
The discovery prompted Gov. Kim Reynolds to issue a disaster declaration for Sac County. That move clears the way for state agencies to assist with handling the outbreak. The proclamation remains in effect through Nov. 27.
According to the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, highly pathogenic avian influenza is carried by wild birds which often don't show any symptoms of it. But the disease is deadly for domestic birds.
The symptoms of the disease include:
• Sudden increase in bird deaths without any clinical signs
• Lethargy and/or lack of energy and appetite
• Decrease in egg production
• Soft, thin-shelled and/or misshapen eggs
• Swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, and hocks
• Purple/blue discoloration of the wattles, comb, and legs
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing, sneezing, and/or nasal discharge (runny nose)
• Stumbling and/or falling down
• Diarrhea