WattAgNet: New avian influenza cases in Minnesota, Wisconsin

Minnesota has two turkey flocks and one layer flock infected; Wisconsin turkey flock tests positive for avian influenza

Release Date: 2015-04-27

Four new cases of H5N2 avian influenza were reported by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) on April 24. Three of the four outbreaks were reported in commercial turkey flocks, while the other involved an egg layer operation.

According to APHIS, two of the cases were confirmed in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, making them the 16th and 17th cases of the virus in that county. The number of turkeys in the flocks affected by the county’s most recent cases is still pending, according to the federal agency.

The other new avian influenza outbreak in Minnesota was confirmed in Clay County, with 175,000 chickens affected.

The fourth outbreak was confirmed in Chippewa County, Wisconsin, where a flock of 56,000 turkeys was infected. This marks the fourth confirmation of avian influenza in Wisconsin.

According to APHIS, all four of the affected properties have been quarantined and birds on the property will be depopulated.

An avian influenza state of emergency has been established by the governors of both Minnesota and Wisconsin. Each declaration called for the assistance from the National Guard if needed.

To keep informed of the areas affected by avian influenza, see WATTAgNet’s avian influenza map to track cases confirmed across North America. Filter the map view by avian influenza strain, type of operation, species, region and date confirmed.