Cornell Cooperative Extension Hosts Free Event on Bird Flu Updates

WATERLOO, N.Y. — On March 24, 2025, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Seneca County (CCE Seneca) is set to host a crucial event regarding updates on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as Bird Flu. This free session will run from 6 PM to 7:30 PM in the CCE Seneca Conference Room, located at 369 East Main Street, Waterloo, NY, and will be accessible both in-person and virtually via a webinar format. Experts from leading institutions, including Cornell University, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), and the New York State Department of Health, will provide valuable information regarding HPAI, discussing the latest findings, guidelines on reporting potential cases, and best practices for prevention. Key presenters include Amy Barkley, a Livestock Specialist at Cornell; Christina M. Hoh, a Wildlife Biologist with the NYS DEC; and Bryon Backenson, Deputy Director at the NYS Department of Health, highlighting the depth of expertise attending this session. In light of recent outbreaks and the ongoing threat posed by HPAI to both domestic and wild bird populations, this event assumes vital significance not just for poultry farmers, but also for public health officials and community members alike. With cases of HPAI having rapidly escalated – including its detection in dairy cattle for the first time – the event serves as a platform to educate the agricultural community about the implications of HPAI spread and enhance biosecurity measures across various sectors. Additionally, given the recent spikes in human infections associated with HPAI, this event is timely and pertinent, offering insights into how individuals can protect themselves and their livestock. Attendees are encouraged to register online in advance for the session of their choice, either in-person or via Zoom, emphasizing the program's commitment to accessibility. Furthermore, the event showcases the long-standing legacy of CCE Seneca, which has upheld its role in agricultural education and community service for over a century, demonstrating the importance of ongoing support and preparation in agricultural sectors against potential zoonotic diseases. As healthcare and agricultural professionals monitor the evolving landscape of the HPAI threat, it's essential that community engagement, public awareness, and preventive measures continue to be fostered. The participation by county and state experts also reveals a greater imperative: ensuring effective communication and coordination among various sectors to mitigate risks associated with HPAI. In conclusion, this event is an important initiative as the world grapples with the uncertain trajectory of HPAI and its possible impacts on both animal health and public safety. As noted, the risk posed by the virus persists, necessitating informed engagement and a proactive approach to biosecurity. This article has been analyzed and reviewed by artificial intelligence to provide a more robust understanding of the information presented and to encourage informed discussions in our communities. Stay connected for more updates on key developments in public health and agriculture.