~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced the release of a control area within Caroline County, MD in response to the recent outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). This decision comes after thorough evaluation and monitoring of the situation.

The previously infected premise remains under quarantine, but all other farms in the former control area are now free from movement and placement restrictions. This means that these farms can resume normal operations and are no longer required to conduct enhanced surveillance testing specific to the control area. However, it is important to note that if these farms are located within another active control area, they must still adhere to the restrictions in place.

Routine HPAI surveillance will continue statewide to ensure the safety and well-being of poultry in Maryland. Farms that placed birds before the release of the control area are still required to complete biosecurity audits if they have not already done so. This is crucial in preventing any further spread of the virus.

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The state currently has active control areas in Caroline and Cecil Counties on Maryland's Eastern Shore. As such, it is imperative for all poultry producers, whether commercial or backyard flock owners, to maintain strong and consistent biosecurity practices.

But what does it take for a control area to be released? According to officials, there are several conditions that must be met. First and foremost, the infected flock must be depopulated and compost piles must be capped. Additionally, initial virus elimination must be completed for the infected premises. Finally, required surveillance testing for both commercial and backyard flocks must be completed.

It is worth noting that even though these control areas have been released, any farm within a control area that did not complete a biosecurity audit and had chicks placed before its closure will still need to do so.

HPAI is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads quickly among birds through nasal and eye secretions as well as manure. It can be transmitted from flock to flock, including wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, equipment, and even the clothing and shoes of caretakers. This virus primarily affects poultry such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys, but can also impact some wild bird species like ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.

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In the event that poultry owners notice any signs of HPAI in their flocks or experience increased mortality rates, it is crucial to take immediate action. Commercial producers should notify the company they grow for while backyard flock owners should not take dead or sick birds to a lab for testing or move them off-site. Instead, they should report any unusual or sudden increases to the MDA Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810.

The Maryland Department of Agriculture continues to closely monitor the situation and urges all poultry producers to remain vigilant in their biosecurity measures. By working together and taking necessary precautions, we can help prevent the spread of HPAI and protect our state's poultry industry.

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