(Des Moines) – The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, in coordination with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), has confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) in a mixed-species backyard flock in Dallas County, Iowa. This marks the fifth detection of H5N1 HPAI in domestic birds within the state in 2025.
H5N1 HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both wild and domestic birds. While wild birds can carry the virus without showing symptoms, it is often fatal to domestic poultry such as chickens and turkeys. The virus can also impact dairy cattle, with 13 cases identified in Iowa dairy herds in June 2024. However, affected dairy herds typically recover with supportive care and minimal mortality.
To safeguard their animals, Iowa poultry producers and dairy farmers are urged to strengthen biosecurity measures. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship offers extensive biosecurity resources for poultry, dairy, and livestock farmers on its website.
Anyone who suspects signs of H5N1 HPAI in their poultry or backyard birds should contact a veterinarian immediately. Suspected cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5305.
