HPAI Confirmed in Wisconsin Backyard Poultry Flock

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin officials confirm a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, known as HPAI H5N1, in a backyard poultry flock in Marquette County. The detection, reported on December 4, adds to national concerns about the spread of the virus in both commercial and backyard flocks. State agencies say they will continue monitoring the situation closely while offering guidance to protect animal and human health.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), no cases of HPAI H5N1 have been found in cattle in the state. DATCP is working with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to provide information on personal protective equipment for people handling animals.

Health officials say individuals who work with poultry should follow CDC guidelines to reduce risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the overall public health risk from the virus remains low.

DATCP urges livestock owners to practise strong biosecurity every day. This includes washing hands, disinfecting tools and equipment, limiting visitors near animals, and isolating new animals for at least 30 days. These steps help prevent the spread of disease in flocks and herds.

When HPAI is confirmed in a Wisconsin poultry flock, the state sets up a control area with a 10-kilometre radius around the infected location. Movement of poultry on or off farms inside this area is restricted. Poultry owners are encouraged to use DATCP’s online mapping tool to check whether their location falls within an active control or surveillance zone.

Residents can receive updates on HPAI activity by signing up online or visiting DATCP’s website at hpai.wi.gov.

Across the country, USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories report 101 confirmed HPAI H5N1 detections in 26 states over the past month. Maps showing national cases in both poultry and livestock are available through USDA resources.

The latest confirmation in Wisconsin highlights the importance of practising daily biosecurity and staying informed as the virus continues to affect poultry nationwide.

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