Bird Flu Confirmed in Kenosha County Backyard Flock; No Public Health Risk

KENOSHA, Wis (WRJN) – An animal in a backyard poultry flock in Kenosha County has tested positive for bird flu. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1).

DATCP and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working together on a joint response. The impacted facility will be restricted from moving poultry or poultry products, and the birds will be killed to prevent disease spread.

According to the CDC, HPAI does not pose an immediate public health concern and does not affect food safety if handled and cooked properly to 165°F. The H5N1 HPAI virus has been going around North America since December 2021 and is highly contagious and often fatal to domestic poultry.

DATCP urges livestock owners to implement measures, including hand washing, equipment disinfection, and restricting access to animals. A control area has been established within a 10-kilometer radius of the Kenosha County area in question.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is monitoring exposed farm workers, with the risk to the general public remaining low. 

For more information, visit the Wisconsin DHS Office of Preparedness and Emergency Health Care.