Minnesota Reports First H5N1 Detection in Poultry Since April

Minnesota has reported its first detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in poultry since the spring, confirming the presence of the virus at a commercial turkey farm in Redwood County. This finding follows similar outbreaks reported in South Dakota and North Dakota earlier this month.

Virus Detection Effects

According to the Minnesota Board of Health, health officials and industry representatives have been diligently working over the summer to eradicate the virus from quarantined farms, aiming to officially declare the state free from the disease by August 25, 2025. However, this recent detection has reset response efforts.

This detection resets Minnesota’s response teams and will draw responders back into the fight against avian influenza this fall.

The affected flock consisted of 20,000 turkeys. Officials noted that this detection was anticipated, as fall marks the migration period for wild waterfowl, which can spread the virus to domestic birds.

Additional H5N1 Findings

In related news, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) reported an additional 15 H5N1 detections in wild birds. These detections, which occurred during August and September, primarily involved vultures, along with various waterfowl and birds of prey, spanning locations from Alaska to the East Coast.

Moreover, the USDA has documented another H5 detection in wildlife, specifically a raccoon from Rice County, Minnesota, with a sample collection date in June. This expands the understanding of the virus’s potential spread to other wildlife. For more details, visit the USDA’s site here.

Conclusion

The resurgence of H5N1 in Minnesota underscores the ongoing vigilance required to manage avian influenza outbreaks. With migratory patterns influencing virus transmission, it becomes imperative for state officials and farmers to collaborate effectively in safeguarding both poultry and public health.

Source: CIDRAP