Two more cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been detected in Pennsylvania. A commercial broiler operation of 97,700 birds as well as another farm with 2,100 birds, both located in Lancaster County, recently tested positive for the virus.

Entering its second year, Suresh Kuchipudi, director of the Penn State Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, told news outlet WTAJ that this outbreak is far more than ever experienced before.

Kuchipudi explained that the virus can affect a wide range of mammals, with many getting sick after eating dead birds that are already infected.

“For this particular virus, there is no vaccine or cure, so the only method or weapon we have is the prevention,” Kuchipudi said.

Kuchipudi emphasized the importance of having biosecurity measures in place to prevent exposure.

“It is always important to avoid direct contact with sick birds and let the trained, experienced professionals appropriately handle the birds because they’re trained to handle them in a much safer way,” Kuchipudi he told WTAJ.

If the disease is suspected, Kuchipudi said it is critical to let the appropriate authorities know as soon as possible to limit the spread.