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Wisconsin Confirms First 2026 H5N1 Case in Jefferson County Poultry Flock

Health officials report low public risk, with monitoring of exposed workers underway.

Overview

  • DATCP and the USDA have quarantined the site and established a 10‑kilometer control area that restricts poultry movement.
  • Depopulation of the affected flock is in progress, and birds from the site will not enter the food system.
  • The H5N1 strain is highly contagious and often fatal to poultry, spreading via wild birds, droppings, equipment, or contaminated clothing.
  • The Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Jefferson County Public Health are tracking exposed farm workers for potential symptoms.
  • Producers are urged to tighten biosecurity, and a DATCP mapping tool is available to check whether flocks fall within the control area.