Keep An Eye On HPAI

As the spring migration continues, highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to threaten wild and domestic birds.

In addition to the response to HPAI in poultry in certain states across the nation, federal agencies are also working with states on the emerging disease of HPAI in dairy cattle.

Access the USDA list of detections in domestic livestock: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock

Sign up for updates on H5N1 in cattle from the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection: https://service.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIDATCP/subscriber/new

DATCP continues to urge all poultry owners to implement strong biosecurity measures to protect their birds from HPAI. ​As a reminder, 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

There are several ways to report signs in commercial and backyard poultry flocks or to ask questions:

  • 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, choose option 2 when prompted, and tell the duty officer that you are reporting a potential animal disease.
  • Report illness in wild birds: Contact the Wisconsin DNR at (608) 267-0866 or by email at DNRWildlifeSwitchboard@wisconsin.gov.
  • DATCP media line: (608) 224-4902. Leave a message with any questions or concerns, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.