Lessons Learned from Avian Influenza Outbreaks in Virginia

Early developments in commercial hatchery technology, artificial incubation and brooding, marketing, diagnostic testing, and key infrastructure improvements from 1900 to 1950 contributed to the growth and present prominence of the poultry industry in the Shenandoah Valley and its importance in the agricultural economy of Virginia. In 2003, Virginia ranked 5, 9, and 31 in the nation for commercial turkey, broiler, and egg production, respectively, and the value of the state’s turkey, broiler, and egg production was $692 million. The expansion and density of poultry production in the Shenandoah Valley has posed challenges to the industry and regulatory officials in the control of contagious diseases like avian influenza (AI).