By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has temporarily halted poultry-related events in several southern Wisconsin counties to reduce the risk of spreading Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Under the order, all poultry shows, exhibitions, swap meets, and the movement of poultry to events are suspended in the counties of Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Grant, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Kenosha, Lafayette, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Richland, Rock, Sauk, Vernon, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha.
The suspension will remain in place through May 10, 2026. DATCP officials say they are continuing to track HPAI activity across the United States along with migratory wild bird patterns. If additional cases are confirmed, the restrictions could be extended or expanded to include more counties.
Officials are urging poultry owners and caretakers to maintain strict biosecurity practices to protect their flocks. Whenever possible, birds should be kept indoors to limit exposure to wild birds, which can carry the virus.
Common warning signs of HPAI in poultry include sudden death without symptoms, reduced energy or appetite, a drop in egg production or misshapen eggs, purple discoloration of wattles and combs, breathing problems, nasal discharge, coughing or sneezing, loss of coordination, and diarrhea.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Poultry