Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
In the last 30 days, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in:
- 96 cases in poultry in 28 states.
- Two cases in livestock in two states.
Access the lists of detections in poultry and livestock.
To date, there has been one HPAI detection in livestock other than poultry in Wisconsin. Access the list of recent poultry detections in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin and the National Milk Testing Strategy
With help from industry partners, Wisconsin is sampling milk at the farm level for the mandatory USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS). When Wisconsin began NMTS testing in May 2025, the goal was to test each farm approximately every month. Wisconsin achieved unaffected Gold Status under the NMTS in September 2025. In October, DATCP reduced its testing frequency to 50%.
DATCP continues to utilize milk samples that are already collected through existing, routine sampling to streamline the NMTS testing process. DATCP is consulting with the USDA to reevaluate the state's testing frequency and determine next steps to achieve gold status again under the NMTS after HPAI was detected in a Wisconsin dairy herd in December 2025.
Access the updated December 7-13, 2025 milk testing numbers on DATCP's website. To date, more than 25,000 milk samples have been tested as part of the NMTS. These tests represent nearly all licensed dairies in Wisconsin, with continuing verifications underway to ensure complete statewide reach. The DATCP HPAI in Dairy Cattle webpage will continue to be updated weekly as the testing continues.
Biosecurity and Monitoring
It is important to remain vigilant and utilize enhanced biosecurity measures.
HPAI Protocol: What to Do if HPAI is Confirmed on Your Dairy Farm
DATCP created a resource document in case of a detection of HPAI on a dairy farm. The document is intended to serve as a general reference for industry, but individual needs and response actions may differ for HPAI detections depending on the operation and specific circumstances. Access the HPAI Protocol: What to Do if HPAI is Confirmed on Your Dairy Farm document.
Human Health Precautions
Human cases of HPAI have been reported following exposure to infected animals. Access the confirmed cases and exposure sources for human infections.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) advises those working with animals to take precautions and wear PPE per CDC guidance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public health risk from HPAI detections remains low.
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