Highly Pathogenic Avian Bird Flu Reported in Indiana
H5N1 is making headlines as it impacts states across the nation. California has been placed under a State of Emergency due to the virus, but what about here at home in Indiana? Is there an impact on Hoosiers?
What Is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Are Humans at Risk?
H5N1 is a strain of influenza virus that is considered to be highly pathogenic. It is often referred to as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or HPAI. It is a type of Influenza virus that in the past has posed little threat to humans, according to the CDC. However rare, transmission to humans is possible under certain circumstances.
Direct infection can occur from exposure to saliva, mucous, or feces from infected birds. Bird flu infections among people are rare; however, human infections can happen when enough virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth, or is inhaled.
Who Is At Risk for Contracting H5N1?
The CDC says that people in close or prolonged contact with infected birds, their mucus, saliva, or feces, and who lack proper respiratory and eye protection are at greater risk of contracting the H5N1 virus.
Transmission Among Wild Birds, Commercial Poultry, and Dairy Cattle
Most recently, there has been an increase in HPAI cases in both wild and commercial birds, as well as humans. Additionally, there have been cases of HPAI found in dairy cattle. Because of this, the commercial livestock industry has culled dozens of flocks and herds nationwide.
How Is H5N1 Impacting Indiana?
Looking at data from the CDC and the USDA, we can get an idea of how H5N1 is impacting the Hoosier State. First, as of the time of this writing, there have been zero cases reported by the USDA of H5N1 in dairy cattle in Indiana in the last 30 days.
H5N1 Bird Infections in Indiana
When it comes to birds in Indiana, we aren't as lucky. According to reports shared by the CDC, a commercial turkey flock of nearly 20,000 birds was culled in Jay County, Indiana in January 2025 as a result of H5N1. While there have been no reports yet of HPIA in wild birds yet in 2025, there were more than a dozen cases reported across multiple counties in 2024 from August to December including in Posey, Vanderburgh, Gibson, Starke, and Monroe Counties.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
The CDC advises the public that the best course of action is prevention. Avoid direct contact with wild birds and other wildlife that has or is suspected of having H5N1. If you must have contact, ensure that you are practicing proper safety including the use of appropriate PPE.
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