Bird Flu Confirmed In 8 More Flocks In Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Officials have confirmed bird flu in eight more flocks in Minnesota.

The U.S Department of Agriculture says four are turkey flocks in Kandiyohi County. Bird flu also was confirmed in two locations in Stearns County - a turkey flock and flock of layer chickens - as well as in a turkey flock in Swift County and, for the first time, in Steele County, where a turkey flock is affected.

The total number of birds affected in Minnesota exceeds 3.4 million. As of Wednesday, 64 farms have been hit.

Gov. Mark Dayton says the state may set up a low-interest loan program for farmers hit by the outbreak.

Dayton hosted a turkey lunch for staff interns Wednesday to show Minnesotans that the birds are still safe to eat.