IDALS and USDA confirmed positive cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Louisa and Wright County

Waterloo, IOWA – According to the state officials, the HPAI was reportedly found in a non-commercial backyard flock in Louisa County and a commercial layer flock in Wright County.

Officials also said that commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds.

Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials.

Biosecurity resources and best practices are available at iowaagriculture.gov/biosecurity. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5305.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present a public health concern.

It remains safe to eat poultry products. As a reminder, consumers should always utilize the proper handling and cooking of eggs and poultry products. An internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses.