On Monday, November 7, two cases of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) were confirmed in a non-commercial backyard flock in Louisa County, and a commercial layer flock in Wright County.

A coordinated response team from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is actively working with the affected producers to limit the spread of the virus. Meanwhile, commercial and backyard flock owners are encouraged to prevent contact between their birds and wild birds.

Any bird owners observing sick birds or unusual deaths are asked to report them to the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and their local vet. Some signs of HPAI in birds include lack of energy and appetite, decrease in egg production, and swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, and hocks.

While there is no perceived public health concern, consumers are urged to continue taking the proper steps for handling and cooking eggs and poultry products. For additional information about HPAI, click here. To report a potential case, call 515-281-5305.