Three counties have been added to the list of seven Wisconsin counties in which cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been identified in domestic flocks. They are Columbia, Sheboygan and Polk counties, according to information released Thursday by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
DATCP and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working with animal health officials in response efforts, the release stated.
HPAI has now been found in seven domestic flocks across Wisconsin since March, when the virus was first confirmed in the state.
Earlier counties in which the influenza has been discovered in domestic flocks include Jefferson, Racine, Rock and Barron counties.
“As avian influenza continues to affect poultry in Wisconsin and throughout the nation, we’re reminding flock owners that strong biosecurity is our best defense against this devastating disease. We urge everyone working around poultry to increase their biosecurity measures and continue reporting signs of illness to help us prevent spread of the virus,” State Veterinarian Dr. Darlene Konkle was quoted as saying in the release.
Depopulation efforts are underway at each of the three locations. Anyone who would like to report increased mortality or signs of disease among domestic birds can contact DATCP at 608-224-4872 (business hours) or 800-943-0003 (after hours and weekends). 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
Chickens, file photo/Kim McDarison.
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