The state-wide quarantine of poultry in California due to a highly contagious fatal disease was lifted Monday by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Virulent Newcastle disease has been eradicated from southern California, the agency said in a press release, and residents can now buy, sell, and move poultry freely within the state. Entire flocks were euthanized to prevent the spread of the disease. Virulent Newcastle disease—which affects poultry’s respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems—was first detected in May 2018 in Los Angeles County and in six months, it had spread extensively in southern California. The last confirmed case in California was found in February 2020. Poultry entering California must have either a certificate of veterinary inspection or a National Poultry Improvement Program certificate. Poultry owners are encouraged to regularly inspect their birds for signs of illness.
