Bird flu detected in Wisconsin, officials euthanize infected Rusk County flock

A highly contagious strain of bird flu has been detected in a backyard poultry flock in Rusk County, Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) confirmed the case on Thursday.

DATCP said all birds on the property were euthanized and will not enter the food system. Officials did not specify how the flock became infected.

The disease detected is highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), a highly contagious virus that is often fatal to domestic poultry. According to DATCP, the virus has circulated among wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021.

The agency said the disease is caused by influenza type A viruses and can vary in severity depending on the strain and the species affected.

The virus can spread through contact with infected birds, wild birds or their droppings, as well as through contaminated equipment or clothing worn by people working with the animals.

When HPAI is confirmed in a backyard poultry flock, officials may establish a 10-kilometer surveillance zone, though surrounding poultry premises would not face movement restrictions, DATCP said.

DATCP urged livestock owners to take precautions to protect their flocks and herds, including washing hands, disinfecting equipment, restricting access to animals and separating new additions for at least 30 days.

The agency also recommended that poultry owners keep their birds indoors when possible.