By Andi Anderson
Indiana has recorded its first case of bird flu in 2025. A commercial turkey farm in Jay County, bordering Ohio, tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza virus. This is the first case in the state since February 2024.
The affected flock of 20,000 turkeys has been culled to prevent the spread of the virus. Officials have quarantined the farm, and portions of Jay and Adams counties are now under strict surveillance. These measures ensure no poultry can enter the site until thorough cleaning, disinfection, and environmental testing confirm the virus is eradicated.
Farmers impacted by the outbreak can partially recover financial losses through a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program. Bird flu, described as the country’s “largest animal health emergency,” has impacted all 50 states since 2022.
Although the virus predominantly affects birds, concerns are growing about its spread to cattle. Over 900 dairy herds across 16 states were affected last year, with California declaring a state of emergency. However, Indiana officials report no cases in the state’s cattle herds to date.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk to the public remains low. It advises proper cooking of poultry, eggs, and beef to kill potential bacteria and viruses, including bird flu. Pasteurization of milk effectively neutralizes the virus, but the CDC warns against consuming raw milk.
Indiana, the fourth-largest turkey-producing state in the U.S., plays a significant role in national poultry production.
Strict measures are in place to protect livestock and public health as the state combats this outbreak. For now, authorities continue monitoring and enforcing preventive strategies to mitigate risks.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Poultry