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Pennsylvania Becomes U.S. Bird Flu Epicenter as Shapiro Expands Rapid Response

Pennsylvania concentrates personnel in Lancaster to curb a fast-growing HPAI surge.

Overview

  • USDA data show more than 7 million birds in Pennsylvania were infected in the past 30 days, with officials citing roughly 7.4 million across 13 commercial flocks.
  • State leaders say Pennsylvania now accounts for more than half of U.S. cases, with infections concentrated in Lancaster and the Susquehanna Valley.
  • A Lancaster Rapid Response Center is coordinating expanded testing, equipment distribution, and outreach to reach affected farms quickly.
  • Federal support includes 42 USDA staff assisting state teams as agencies coordinate operations to slow spread and protect the poultry sector.
  • Vaccination is under discussion as a limited pilot that would take months due to federal trade and logistical constraints, while the public is urged to report sick or dead wild birds and avoid contact.