A state disaster proclamation issued in response to an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in three local counties has been extended.

Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Friday that she has extended the disaster proclamation in Hamilton, Kossuth and Pocahontas counties through Dec. 17. Buena Vista, Clay and Taylor counties are also included in the extension.

The proclamation enables state resources, especially from Iowa Homeland Security and the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, to assist with tracking and monitoring, rapid detection of the disease, containment, disposal and disinfection.

The proclamation also temporarily sets aside regulations on commercial vehicles traveling to affected sites.

The disease in birds does not present an immediate public health concern, according to the governor’s office. Poultry products remain safe to eat, the governor’s office reported.