Wisconsin

Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) in Wisconsin

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has caused 71 confirmed human cases across 13 US states since 2024, with ongoing exposure through dairy farms and poultry operations. As of June 2026, cases have been confirmed in California, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Three cases involved unknown exposure sources. Two deaths have occurred. CDC considers current risk to the general public as low, but monitors closely for signs of person-to-person transmission. Track Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity and outbreaks specific to Wisconsin.

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Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Conjunctivitis (eye infections)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Diarrhea
  • Pneumonia
  • Respiratory failure (severe cases)

Transmission

Primarily through direct contact with infected birds or animals (dairy cows). No confirmed person-to-person spread in 2026 US cases.

Contagious Period: Not established for human-to-human; 3-5 days from symptom onset in avian cases

Prevention

  • Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
  • Use PPE when working with poultry or dairy cattle
  • Do not consume raw milk
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Report sick birds to authorities

Wisconsin Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

We're Monitoring Wisconsin

Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity across Wisconsin. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.

Get instant push notifications when Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity increases in Wisconsin or your specific county.

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Wisconsin Health Department

For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Wisconsin, visit your state health department's website.

Protecting Yourself in Wisconsin

Whether you live in Wisconsin, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:

Prevention Measures

  • Avoid contact with sick or dead birds
  • Use PPE when working with poultry or dairy cattle
  • Do not consume raw milk
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Report sick birds to authorities

When to Seek Care

If you experience symptoms of Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) in Wisconsin, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.

Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

View CDC Resources β†’

WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources β†’

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

View Research β†’

Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-24

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