By Scout Nelson
Minnesota continues to be a major hotspot for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). A recent outbreak at a commercial turkey farm in Stearns County affected approximately 34,400 birds, adding to the state's growing number of cases.
Over the past 30 days, Minnesota has reported H5N1 detections in eight commercial flocks and three backyard flocks. Combined, these outbreaks have impacted more than 343,000 birds, highlighting the ongoing challenges poultry producers face in managing the disease.
The virus remains a significant concern for the poultry industry as officials continue monitoring affected operations and working to limit further spread. Strong biosecurity practices remain an important tool for protecting healthy flocks and reducing infection risks.
Nationally, H5N1 has affected roughly 550,000 birds across 12 commercial flocks and nine backyard flocks during the past month. Minnesota accounts for a substantial share of those losses, underscoring the state's central role in the current outbreak activity.
Animal health authorities emphasize the importance of disease surveillance, early detection, and preventive measures. Producers are encouraged to remain vigilant as H5N1 continues to affect poultry operations across the country.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock, Poultry