MDA Revises Poultry Fair & Show Policy as High Path Avian Influenza Spreads in MidWest

All Poultry Must be Tested 10 Days Prior to Entry; Waterfowl Prohibited from Shows

ANNAPOLIS, MD – As highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to spread in midwestern states, the Maryland Department of Agriculture in an abundance of caution, has revised its 2015 Fair and Show Requirements for poultry.

Effective immediately, waterfowl will be not allowed to enter Maryland Fairs and Shows. All poultry both in state and out of state poultry must be tested for avian influenza within 10 days prior to entry, or originate from a NPIP Avian Influenza Clean or Monitored flock. Click here for the revised policy.

At this time, the MDA is not ordering the closure of Maryland Fairs and Shows to poultry other than for waterfowl. However, MDA is constantly monitoring the situation. If highly pathogenic avian influenza enters our region, MDA will order a complete closure of all poultry from Maryland fairs and shows.

Any questions, please call the MDA Animal Health Program at 410-841-5810.

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