ODA Announces Live Bird Transport Ban in Hardin, Allen, and Nearby Counties Due to Avian Influenza

The Ohio Department of Agriculture issued a proclamation this week banning the movement of live birds in several counties due to the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or HPAI.

The virus has affected over 158 million birds across the country, including more than 14 million birds in Ohio.

It spreads through saliva, nasal secretions, and feces from infected birds, with wild birds migrating through Ohio contributing to the spread.

The new restrictions apply to non-commercial premises in 11 counties, including Hardin, Allen, Auglaize and Logan Counties in our region.

This means no live birds, poultry, wild game birds, or exotic species, can be moved or transported for public and private events, including auctions, flea markets, and livestock markets.

The ODA is taking this action to protect the state’s commercial poultry industry, which contributes nearly $5 billion to Ohio’s economy and supports thousands of jobs.

HPAI is considered a highly contagious disease, and officials are working to limit its spread.

The order will remain in place until May 15 or until it is changed.

The full proclamation can be found here.