Other than the possibility of people and/or fowl becoming infected, what are the top concerns of Florida?
The poultry industry is important in Florida and the presence of AI can result in embargo and lost markets domestically and internationally. That is why commercial poultry companies and FDACS have an aggressive testing and monitoring program. In addition, FDACS is responsible for food safety and these steps ensure the safety of Floridas food supply. AI viruses are destroyed by heat and are killed in the cooking process. It is perfectly safe to consume fowl that is cooked properly (well done or 160 F). Public perception about the safety of fowl is also an important factor and that is why public outreach and education about the facts of AI is so important.
