By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) in a commercial poultry flock located in Jefferson County.
In coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), state officials have launched a joint response. The impacted site has been placed under quarantine to prevent the movement of poultry and related products.
As part of standard control measures, the flock will be depopulated, and none of the birds will enter the food chain.
H5N1 continues to circulate in both wild and domestic birds across North America, first appearing in late 2021. The virus is highly contagious and frequently fatal for poultry.
Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected birds, exposure to droppings, contaminated equipment, or clothing worn by people handling the animals.
DATCP urges livestock and poultry owners to strengthen biosecurity practices. Recommendations include frequent hand washing, disinfecting tools and vehicles, limiting visitor access, and isolating new animals for at least 30 days. Poultry owners are also advised to house their flocks indoors whenever possible.
Following an HPAI detection, a control zone of 10 kilometers is established around the infected location, restricting poultry movement within that area. DATCP provides an online mapping tool to help producers determine if their farms fall within an active control or surveillance zone.
Health officials, including the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and Jefferson County Public Health, are monitoring workers who may have been exposed. Current assessments show that the risk to the wider public remains low.
Guidance for farmworkers and others who may come in close contact with birds, dairy cattle, or other livestock is available under Protective Actions for People.
DATCP also reminds all Wisconsin livestock owners to comply with state law requiring premises registration. This registration enables rapid communication during animal health emergencies.
For reporting sick or deceased animals, or for the latest updates on HPAI in Wisconsin, producers should visit DATCP’s avian influenza resource page: HPAI in Poultry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Poultry