Millions of chickens have been killed in Iowa in an effort to stop the spread of avian flu. Humans can be infected with the avian flu virus, with most cases involving close direct contact with sick poultry, according to the Center for Food Security and Public Health. Senator Chuck Grassley told KCII News that he recently met with poultry producers during an annual meeting and discussed concerns in Iowa. Grassley added the federal government is offering to help fund work to repopulate flocks.

Avian influenza mostly affects bird species but can affect mammals. It is spread by direct contact with fecal droppings or respiratory secretions of infected birds.

Currently 13 counties in Iowa have cases of the bird flu with 50 infected sites and over 23 million birds affected.

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Iowa State University Extension and Outreach encourages concerned residents to use the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985 if they have questions. The Iowa Concern Hotline is available 24 hours a day. All calls are free and confidential.