Wisconsin health officials have culled an entire backyard poultry flock after confirming a highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak.
Outbreak Confirmed
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced Thursday that a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was detected in a Rusk County backyard flock.
All birds on the property were euthanized and will not enter the food system, officials said.
DATCP has not disclosed how the infection entered the flock.
Virus Background
HPAI, a strain of influenza type A, has circulated among wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021, according to DATCP.
The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated equipment and clothing, the agency noted.
Response Measures
When HPAI is confirmed in a backyard flock, officials may establish a 10‑kilometer surveillance zone, though surrounding poultry operations face no movement restrictions.
DATCP urges all livestock owners to wash hands, disinfect tools, limit access to animals, and isolate new additions for at least 30 days.
Poultry keepers are advised to house birds indoors whenever possible to reduce exposure.
National and International Context
Australia reported its first H5N1 bird flu case this week, marking the virus presence on every continent.
Senator JD Vance installed a custom chicken coop at the Naval Observatory and pledged personal oversight of the birds, a move announced by his office.
