Pennsylvania and Latest Jersey Confront Severe Avian Flu Outbreak, Governors Respond
HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania and New Jersey are battling significant outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), prompting state officials to take action to protect poultry industries and monitor wildlife. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has announced additional resources to support the state’s poultry producers, while New Jersey authorities are investigating the deaths of numerous geese.
Pennsylvania Faces Worst Outbreak Since the 1980s
Pennsylvania is experiencing its most severe bird flu outbreak since the 1980s, considered one of the most devastating agricultural disasters in the state’s history. As of February 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has reported 7.23 million birds affected by avian flu nationwide, with 5.5 million of those cases occurring in Pennsylvania, primarily in Lancaster County .
Governor Shapiro has ordered the creation of a specialized team to strengthen testing and biosafety measures, following consultations with industry experts, including State Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding . Pennsylvania has a dedicated recovery fund for HPAI, providing grants to affected farms to offset economic losses – a mechanism not available in all states .
Grant Gulibon of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau emphasized the state’s investments in diagnostic laboratories and rapid response protocols. Biosafety measures are in place to prevent external agents from entering farms and limit the spread of the virus. Despite the current crisis, optimism remains that warmer weather and the stabilization of migratory birds in summer will help reduce infections.
New Jersey Investigates Goose Deaths
In New Jersey, authorities in Gloucester County are investigating the deaths of 50 to 75 geese found in and around Lake Alcyon in Pitman. Betty Park and Alcyon Park have been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure .
The USDA is testing samples from the birds to determine if they are infected with bird flu, with results expected to take days or weeks. Between February 14 and February 16, more than 1,100 dead or sick wild birds were reported statewide to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection .
Local authorities state the risk to the public remains low but recommend avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and keeping pets away from wild animals and their droppings. Residents are urged to report any findings to county animal control or state agencies.
Ongoing Surveillance and Response
Health officials in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey reiterate that surveillance remains active to mitigate the impact of the outbreak on the poultry industry, and wildlife. Approximately 40 employees from the USDA are currently working on the ground to contain the spread of the virus .