HPAI Detected in 79,000-Bird Commercial Poultry Flock in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, September 17, 2026: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a commercial poultry flock in Barron County, Wisconsin, prompting a joint response by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and USDA animal-health officials.

Approximately 79,000 birds were present on the affected premises. The farm was quarantined, and birds were depopulated to prevent further transmission. Authorities confirmed that birds from the affected flock will not enter the food system.

The detection comes as North America enters the autumn period when wild-bird migration can increase HPAI transmission pressure. Wisconsin had previously reported commercial poultry outbreaks earlier in 2026.

Industry significance

The event highlights continuing HPAI exposure for commercial poultry despite improved farm-level biosecurity. The combination of seasonal wild-bird movements, rapid detection, quarantine and depopulation remains central to U.S. poultry disease-control strategy.