SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — During December, several highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks have been recorded in California.

On Dec. 5, two broiler operations in Stanislaus County reported the virus to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). One flock showed 254,000 birds affected, while the other showed 239,300 birds.

A third broiler operation was reported to APHIS on Dec. 7, but the number of birds affected was not reported.

“It is important to note that HPAI is widespread in California and may also be present in other counties that are not listed,” the California Department of Food and Agriculture stated on Dec. 6. “Enhanced biosecurity is critical in the face of ongoing disease outbreaks. Please continue to practice good avian biosecurity protocols according to your plans.”

Sonoma County in California continues to report cases of HPAI, most recently a commercial egg-laying operation where 270,000 birds were affected.

Last week, Sonoma County officials declared a local emergency, including quarantining and euthanizing approximately 250,000 birds.

“We need to promote and protect our local food shed and the agricultural producers who dedicate their livelihoods to producing food for our local populations and beyond,” said Sonoma County Agricultural Commissioner Andrew Smith. “These producers are integral in maintaining and increasing food security in our communities.”

Late in November, the county and APHIS reported HPAI in another commercial laying operation (82,500) and a commercial duck breeding operation (169,300).

Other counties in California that have seeing HPAI outbreaks include Fresno, Merced and San Benito.