By Jamie Martin
The H5N1 avian flu virus continues to spread, affecting both commercial poultry farms and backyard flocks across nine U.S. states. Recent outbreaks have led to massive bird losses, particularly in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana, where large-scale poultry farms have been hit hard.
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed new cases in Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Indiana, where a layer farm in Jay County lost nearly 1 million birds. Meanwhile, Iowa reported another outbreak in a turkey flock in Buena Vista County, marking its third outbreak of 2025.
The virus has also impacted backyard flocks in Delaware, Michigan, Minnesota, Wyoming, and New York. Since the virus emerged in 2022, outbreaks have resulted in 159 million bird losses across all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
Wild bird detections have also raised alarms. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recently confirmed a wild merganser in Milwaukee County tested presumptive positive for H5 avian flu. Sick or dead waterfowl have been reported along Lake Michigan’s shoreline in Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha counties.
Wildlife officials continue to urge caution, emphasizing biosecurity measures to prevent further spread. “The best advice we can give is to remain aware and avoid handling wild birds as much as possible,” said Jasmine Batten, Wisconsin's wildlife supervisor.
With the virus still active, poultry farmers and the public must remain vigilant to prevent further outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National