By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA APHIS have confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County, Iowa. This marks Iowa’s fourth case of H5N1 in domestic birds in 2025.
About H5N1 HPAI
H5N1 is a highly contagious viral disease affecting both wild and domestic birds. While wild birds may carry the virus without symptoms, it can be fatal to poultry like chickens and turkeys. The virus has also been found in dairy cattle, with 13 cases reported in Iowa dairy herds in 2024.
Strengthening Biosecurity
To protect flocks and herds, the Iowa Department of Agriculture is urging poultry producers and dairy farmers to follow strict biosecurity measures. Farmers can access biosecurity resources on the Department’s website.
Reporting Suspected Cases
Farmers noticing symptoms in their birds should contact a veterinarian immediately and report suspected cases to the Iowa Department of Agriculture at (515) 281-5305.
Signs of H5N1 in poultry include:
- Sudden bird deaths
- Loss of energy and appetite
- Decrease in egg production
- Swelling and discoloration of comb, wattles, and legs
- Difficulty breathing and nasal discharge
- Stumbling or falling down
- Food Safety and Public Health
The CDC states the risk to the public remains low. Poultry products remain safe to eat if properly cooked to 165°F. Questions regarding public health should be directed to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
Monitoring Wild Birds
The Iowa DNR asks people to report five or more sick or dead wild birds to their local wildlife biologist and to avoid handling deceased birds.
Photo Credit: istock-peopleImages
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Poultry, Rural Lifestyle