Bird Flu Detected in Meeker County Turkey Flock

(KNSI) — Federal inspectors with the U.S. Department of Agriculture say it has detected highly pathogenic avian influenza in a commercial turkey flock in Meeker County.

Nearly 70,000 birds are affected. This is the first H5N1 detection in a flock this spring. Last year, Meeker County saw four bird flu outbreaks.

State officials asked growers to beef up their biosecurity measures before any potential HPAI infections, usually detected in the early spring. The virus thrives in cold, wet environments, and Minnesota springs can create perfect conditions.

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health says any unexplained illness or increase in mortality, decreased egg production, quiet or depressed birds, or respiratory or neurologic signs of disease should be investigated by calling your farm vet. For testing supplies or information, farmers and flock owners should contact:

Minnesota Poultry Testing Laboratory
622 Hwy 71 NE
Willmar, MN 56201

The phone number is 320-231-5170. The lab can also be contacted by email at poultry@state.mn.us.

Earlier this month, dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas tested positive for bird flu, as did a goat in Stevens County.

Since the HPAI outbreak started in the spring of 2022, more than 6.4 million birds in Minnesota have been affected.

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