OCONTO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The highly-pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in backyard flocks in Fond du Lac ad Oconto counties.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) says both flocks were depopulated to prevent spread of the disease.
HPAI has now been found in domestic flocks in nine Wisconsin counties and detected in wild birds in 15 counties.
As cases rise in Wisconsin and neighboring states and wild birds continue to migrate, DATCP urges flock owners to monitor their birds and immediately report increased mortality or signs of disease, which 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
Poultry owners should keep their birds indoors to prevent contact with waterfowl that may spread the virus.
While wild birds are considered a source of spread, domestic flocks can also be infected by contaminated equipment, clothing or vehicles. Proper biosecurity measures – disinfecting surfaces, changing clothes, washing hands – can decrease the risk of infection.
Here’s how you can help document the bird flu:
- Reporting an animal disease in domestic birds: Call (608) 224-4872 (business hours) or (800) 943-0003 (after hours and weekends).
- Reporting an animal disease in wild birds: Call (608) 267-0866.
- General questions or concerns: Call the avian influenza response line at (608) 224-4902.
- Learn about HPAI in Wisconsin online
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