Avian Influenza (H5N1) Spreads Across Iowa, Raising Concerns for Wildlife

WINNESHIEK COUNTY — Avian influenza (H5N1), a highly contagious viral disease affecting birds, continues to spread across Iowa. While Winneshiek County currently has only one confirmed case from March 2023, the state has seen numerous cases of the disease in wild birds and domestic poultry. The first severe human case linked to the virus was reported in Louisiana in December 2024. Since April 2024, there have been 61 reported human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirming the recent Louisiana case as the first to be linked to exposure to backyard flocks. While the patient's condition is severe, no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected. The CDC has reassured the public that the overall risk to human health from H5N1 remains low, but this case highlights the risks of exposure to infected animals. The H5N1 virus is highly transmissible and can be spread through the saliva, mucus, and feces of infected birds. Waterfowl like ducks and geese are natural carriers, often carrying the low-pathogenic form (LPAI) of the virus, which can mutate into the highly pathogenic (HPAI) form upon transmission to domestic poultry. LPAI symptoms in poultry include minor sneezing or coughing, eye or beak discharge, and decreased egg production. HPAI symptoms, however, can be severe, leading to lethargy, labored breathing, blood-tinged discharge, and sudden death. The virus has devastated bird populations, with outbreaks in both commercial poultry operations and wild birds. Iowa has seen a surge in HPAI cases, particularly affecting waterfowl. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) continue to monitor the situation closely, especially as migratory birds carry the virus across the state. Public health officials are urging caution, particularly for individuals involved in activities like poultry farming, hunting, or birdwatching. "We are encouraging the public to stay away from sick birds, especially waterfowl," said Dr. Rachel Ruden, Iowa's state wildlife veterinarian. "We have seen some shift in their clinical presentation - some are still developing the 'classical' signs like twisting their heads and necks or swimming in tight circles. However, some are just quiet and seem unable or unaware to fly away when approached." For poultry owners, this means taking steps to protect flocks from potential exposure to infected wild birds. Backyard flock owners, hunters, and bird enthusiasts are advised to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling birds, avoid contact with sick or dead animals, and practice strict hygiene measures. Infected birds shed the virus in their bodily fluids, and even birds that appear healthy can carry and transmit the disease. For hunters, the CDC recommends thoroughly cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any potential virus. Hunters should also be cautious about their dogs interacting with carcasses, as there is some risk to dogs that come into contact with infected birds. The Iowa DNR and IDALS continue to monitor the situation closely, reminding residents to report any suspected cases of avian influenza in both domestic and wild birds. For wild bird H5N1 detection, contact the Iowa DNR at (515) 725-8200 . For poultry producers or those with backyard flocks, contact your veterinarian and also report to IDALS at (515) 281-5305. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has an online database tracking HPAI detections in wild birds and other species by state here. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.