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Two more H5N2 cases in Wisconsin

There are now five confirmed cases of avian influenza in Wisconsin.  The State Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says the H5N2 virus has been found in a 87,000-turkey flock in Chippewa County in northwest Wisconsin and in an 800,000-hen laying operation in Jefferson County.  This is the second infection in Jefferson County.

The properties were immediately quarantined and neighboring properties with poultry have been notified.  The remaining birds will be depopulated and will not enter the food supply.

State Veterinarian Dr. Paul McGraw has added Chippewa County to the list of counties where movement of poultry to shows, exhibitions and swap meets is banned.  The list includes Jefferson, Barron and Juneau Counties.

Poultry owners are advised to practice good biosecurity for their flocks and take steps to prevent contact with wild birds.  It is believed the virus is being spread by migrating water fowl.