State animal health officials have confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza at a commercial egg-laying operation in Crawford County, affecting 49,727 birds. The flock has been quarantined as part of containment efforts.
A 10-kilometer control area has been established, covering portions of Crawford and Dubois counties. A larger 20-kilometer surveillance zone also includes parts of Perry County. Officials with the Indiana State Board of Animal Health are working with federal partners on additional testing and monitoring within those areas.
The virus involved is the H5N1 strain, which has been active across the United States since 2022. More than 2,000 poultry premises nationwide have been impacted during the ongoing outbreak, which is considered the largest animal health emergency in U.S. history.
As part of the response, nearby commercial and non-commercial poultry flocks are being tested to ensure the virus has not spread. Wildlife officials are also monitoring wild bird populations in and around the control areas. Dairy farms located within designated zones are subject to testing requirements under federal orders.
State officials stress that avian influenza does not present a food safety risk. Properly cooked poultry and eggs, along with pasteurized dairy products, remain safe to consume.
Backyard and hobby poultry owners are encouraged to watch for signs of illness in their birds, including sudden death, decreased egg production, swelling or discoloration, respiratory symptoms, and lack of coordination. Illnesses or unexplained deaths should be reported to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline.
The Indiana Department of Health continues to monitor individuals who may have been exposed to infected animals. Human infections remain rare and are typically linked to prolonged, close contact with infected birds.
Updates and additional information are available through the Indiana State Board of Animal Health website.
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