Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Wisconsin

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As highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to threaten wild and domestic birds, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) reminds poultry owners to practice strong biosecurity and report signs of illness among their flocks.

In Wisconsin, HPAI has now been found in seven counties, most recently in a backyard flock in Polk County. Wild birds in nine counties have tested positive for the virus.

There are several ways to report signs of HPAI or to ask questions:

  • DATCP avian influenza response line: (608) 224-4902. Leave a message with any questions or concerns, and your call will be returned within 24 hours.

  • Report illness in domestic poultry: (608) 224-4872 or by email at DATCPanimalimports@wisconsin.gov. If reporting during evenings and weekends, call (800) 943-0003 and say you are reporting a potential animal disease.

  • Report illness in wild birds: Contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources at (608) 267-0866 or by email at DNRWildlifeSwitchboard@wisconsin.gov.

Signs of HPAI in infected birds include:

  • Sudden death without clinical signs
  • Lack of energy or appetite
  • Decrease in egg production; soft, misshapen eggs
  • Purple discoloration of wattles, comb, and legs
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Runny nose, coughing, sneezing
  • Stumbling or falling down
  • Diarrhea

DATCP continues to update its HPAI in Wisconsin webpage with new resources and information about the virus’s impact among domestic flocks. The latest additions to the FAQs offer information about the composting and disposal process.

For more information, resources and updates on HPAI in Wisconsin, visit the DATCP website.