DATCP warns of bird flu return

Metro Wire Staff

As warmer weather get closer, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is warning about the resurgence of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.

The spring migratory behaviors for wild birds brings an increased risk of infection to poultry flocks, and DATCP is asking all poultry owners to use biosecurity measures, regardless of the size of the flock.

“It can be as simple as remembering to wash your hands before and after handling your birds, keeping the numbers of people who have contact with birds to a minimum, not having a lot of visitors interacting with your birds, keeping food and water sources clean, keeping the area where the birds reside clean,” said Dr. Darlenne Konkle, DATCP’s state veterinarian.

Poultry owners who recognize any abnormal increase in mortality or symptoms of the disease, including drops in appetite or lethargy, are asked to report it to DATCP at (800) 572-8981.