By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin agriculture officials have confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry flock in Barron County, prompting a coordinated response from state and federal animal health authorities.
The affected farm has been placed under quarantine to limit the movement of poultry and poultry products. Officials also depopulated the flock as part of efforts to contain the virus. The birds will not enter the food supply.
HPAI has remained present among wild and domestic birds across North America since late 2021. The virus is highly contagious and can be deadly to poultry.
Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected birds, exposure to wild birds or their droppings, contaminated equipment, and clothing worn by people working around animals.
Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is encouraging livestock owners to strengthen biosecurity practices.
Recommended measures include washing hands, disinfecting tools and equipment, limiting access to animal areas, and keeping newly acquired animals separated from established flocks or herds for at least 30 days.
Poultry owners are also encouraged to house birds indoors whenever practical.
When HPAI is confirmed, Wisconsin establishes a 10-kilometer control area around the affected premises. Movement of poultry on and off properties within the designated area may be restricted.
Producers can use DATCP's online mapping tool to determine whether their operations are located within an active control area or surveillance zone.
Health officials are monitoring farm workers who may have been exposed. The risk to the general public remains low.
DATCP also reminds livestock owners that state law requires premises registration, including locations where poultry are kept. Registration helps animal health officials quickly contact producers during disease outbreaks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Poultry