Wild Birds Drive New Flu Outbreaks

By Andi Anderson

Indiana continues to experience a rise in highly pathogenic avian influenza cases, with four new outbreaks confirmed on poultry operations across the state. Officials report that Indiana remains the center of current avian flu activity, raising concerns for both commercial and backyard poultry owners.

The latest detections come from several operations in northern Indiana. In Elkhart County, a commercial duck breeder reported the presence of avian flu in a flock of 5,000 birds. Nearby, LaGrange County confirmed an outbreak at a commercial duck meat facility with 5,500 birds.

The same county also recorded cases on two additional poultry farms, one housing 28,300 birds and another with 8,700 birds. These detections add to the growing number of affected flocks across the state.

The spread is not limited to domestic poultry. Hundreds of wild birds across the United States have tested positive over the past week, according to updates from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). In Grant County, Washington, hunter-harvested birds such as American wigeons and mallards showed positive results. In Indiana, dozens of wild birds collected by hunters in Greene, LaPorte, and Newton counties also tested positive for the virus.

Avian flu activity is currently considered high, mainly due to the movement of wild birds during migration. These birds often carry the virus without showing symptoms, spreading it to poultry operations through shared environments, contaminated water sources, or other indirect contact.

During the last 30 days alone, 88 flocks across the country have been confirmed with avian flu. This includes 38 commercial operations and 50 backyard flocks, resulting in more than 1.88 million affected birds.

Officials continue to urge poultry producers and backyard flock owners to strengthen biosecurity, reduce flock exposure to wild birds, and report any sudden illness or deaths.

The ongoing situation highlights the importance of disease monitoring, strong protective measures, and awareness among farmers, wildlife groups, and the general public during high-risk seasons.

Photo Credit: istock-peopleImages