Strict biosecurity is urged in Missouri poultry operations to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which has been confirmed in five southwestern Missouri counties. Federal officials have confirmed HPAI in commercial poultry flocks in Newton, Jasper, McDonald, Lawrence and Barry counties. “Highly pathogenic avian influenza is a concern for large and small poultry flocks alike,” said University of Missouri Extension veterinarian Cory Bromfield. “Small flocks include households with a handful or less of birds.” To slow the spread, the Missouri Department of Agriculture has suspended all poultry and waterfowl auctions, shows and swap meets in Missouri counties containing control areas or surveillance zones. Infected birds can shed avian influenza viruses in saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with the virus shed by infected birds. They also can become infected through contact with surfaces contaminated…