I just received an email newsletter from #MDACF regarding #HPAI. It's not looking good...

From the memo [in PDF format]:

"Avian Influenza (HPAI) Notices:

Due to the continuing US outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in domesticated and wild birds and in dairy cattle, Animal Health Officials from all six #NewEnglandStates are united in advising the following for agricultural fairs, competitions, exhibitions, shows, swaps, or other in-person events that encourage the gathering or co-mingling of birds and/or cattle:

Avian species

The New England State Veterinarians strongly discourage the exhibition of domestic and wild waterfowl species and may recommend delaying or canceling domestic fowl or poultry shows. If events are held, best practices for biosecurity should be implemented. Waterfowl exhibitions are currently banned in MA through April 30, 2026, which may be extended.

Bovine species

The New England State Veterinarians strongly discourage the exhibition of any bovines, including both dairy and beef cattle, that have been present in any state at the time that state had a current outbreak of HPAI in cattle.

Bovines that have been shipped from currently affected states in 2026 should not be allowed on the premises of New England fairs or shows. Moving to or from an affected state for any reason will void any New England Fair and Show Season Official Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (OCVIs) that have been issued for such cattle for the remainder of the 2026 season.

The states currently affected by HPAI in cattle can be found on the USDA website..."

Emailed bulletin:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MEDACF/bulletins/412b40f

USDA Website:
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/hpai-confirmed- cases-livestock

Link to MDACF memo [PDF]:
https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MEDACF/2026/04/13/file_attachments/3615362/2026%20NE%20Fairs%20Memo%20March%202026.pdf

#HPAINews #BirdFlu #MaineDACF #NewEngland #HealthAndSafety #AvianInfluenza #H5N1 #LPAI #BirdFlu
#FarmAnimals #AgriculturalFairs #Poultry #Cattle #HealthInformation