The fight against highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as bird flu or avian flu, is ramping up in Pennsylvania. Governor Josh Shapiro has expanded the state’s response by deploying more personnel, increasing testing capacity, and coordinating with the USDA and industry partners to limi t the spread of the virus to protect the state’s $7.1 billion poultry industry. Since the outbreak began in February 2022, officials said more than 14.3 million birds in Pennsylvania have died. State officials also report that since early 2026, 7.2 million birds have been affected by the virus. Last week, Shapiro deployed 42 USDA employees and six Commonwealth workers to support veterinarians, Penn State Extension experts, and National Guard members in containing the virus. “I know farmers are worried given the recent increase in cases, but I want them to know that my Administration is standing with them and continuing our aggressive response to protect Pennsylvania flocks,” Shapiro said in a statement. New Jersey Feb 18 Bird flu may be why over 1,000 geese died in NJ. How Pa., Del. are fighting back Delaware Feb 19 Delaware working to protect poultry industry from bird flu Health Wellness Feb 18 How to keep yourself and your pets safe amid bird flu concerns On Tuesday, Shapiro, along with Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding,  joined Pennsylvania farmers, poultry producers, key agricultural industry leaders, and state legislators for a roundtable discussion on the ongoing surge. “Pennsylvania’s farmers are the backbone of our communities and I know many are worried about the recent rise in HPAI cases,” said Shapiro. “My Administration is working around the clock to expand our rapid response efforts and mitigate this surge. We are deploying more personnel, expanding our testing ability, and coordinating closely with the federal government and our industry partners to ensure we have our poultry farmers’ backs every step of the way.” To learn more about how Pennsylvania is handling the bird flu, visit www.pa.gov/agencies/pda. ...read more read less