North Carolina’s poultry industry is back in business on the global stage after the World Organization for Animal Health declared the state free of High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) on Monday. The decision reopens vital export markets for the state’s $5.6 billion broiler industry, which raises 941 million birds annually.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler celebrated the news, emphasizing its significance for farmers and trade. However, Troxler warned that the threat has not disappeared entirely. Wild bird populations in North Carolina continue to carry the virus, meaning poultry owners must maintain strict biosecurity practices and minimize exposure to wild birds to prevent future outbreaks.
North Carolina leads the nation in poultry and egg cash receipts and ranks second in turkey production, raising 29 million turkeys annually. Last year, the state exported $347.4 million worth of poultry and poultry products, making poultry a cornerstone of its agricultural economy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that no human cases of bird flu have been reported in North Carolina. While H5N1 is highly contagious among birds, it remains classified as a low risk to humans, though infection can cause serious illness and even death.
North Carolina reported its first case of HPAI since February 2024 earlier this year. The Agriculture Department acted quickly to contain the outbreak, protecting both commercial and backyard flocks. Thanks to aggressive containment and monitoring efforts, the state regained its HPAI-free status, critical for maintaining international trading partnerships.
State officials are urging poultry producers to stay vigilant despite the official clearance, recognizing that the presence of HPAI in wild birds remains a persistent threat to the industry’s stability.
