FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 8, 2022
Contact: Kevin Hoffman, Public Information Officer, (608) 224-5005, kevin.hoffman@wisconsin.gov
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MADISON, Wis. – In an effort to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is suspending all poultry shows, exhibitions and swap meets statewide through May 31, 2022.
DATCP had already suspended poultry exhibitions in Jefferson County after a commercial farm was confirmed with HPAI. Minnesota,
Iowa,
Illinois,
and North
Carolina are just some of the states that have implemented similar
restrictions on poultry events.
Poultry owners and those working with poultry are strongly encouraged to continue practicing strict biosecurity to protect their flocks. When possible, poultry owners are asked to keep their flocks indoors to prevent contact with wild birds.
Signs of HPAI in infected birds include:
Sudden death without clinical signs
Lack of energy or appetite
Decrease in egg production; soft, misshapen eggs
Purple discoloration of wattles, comb, and legs
Difficulty breathing
Runny nose, coughing, sneezing
Stumbling or falling down
Diarrhea
To report increased mortality or signs of illness among domestic birds, contact DATCP at (608) 224-4872 (business hours) or (800) 943-0003 (after hours and weekend). Reports also can be emailed to datcpanimalimports@wisconsin.gov.Additional resources