JOHNSON COUNTY — A non-poultry flock in Johnson County has tested positive for the H5N1 avian flu, according to the state.
It's the first non-poultry flock to test positive in the state, according to the Indiana Board of Animal Health. Several other commercial flocks have already tested positive.
There are about 41 chickens, ducks and peafowl in the hobby flock in Johnson County, according to the board. The site has been "quarantined and depopulated."
The board is reaching out to residents near the site to schedule testing to ensure the virus hasn't spread.
Hobby poultry owners in Johnson County can contact the board at 317-544-2387 to schedule testing.
The avian influenza doesn't present a food safety risk and poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly, according to a press release.
The board of animal health is encouraging poultry owners to practice good biosecurity and know the signs of avian influenza. Illnesses and deaths should be reported to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline at 866-536-7593 where they will be routed to a state or federal veterinarian in Indiana for assessment.
The signs include:
- Sudden death without clinical signs
- Lack of energy or appetite
- Decreased egg production
- Soft-shelled or misshapen eggs
- Swelling or purple discoloration of head, eyelids, comb, hocks
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Incoordination
- Diarrhea
Dead birds should be double-bagged and refrigerated for possible testing, according to the release.
The board of animal health will post updates online.
-
Christmas Nights of Lights returns to Indiana State Fairgrounds this winter
Christmas Nights of Lights, dazzling visitors with over a million lights synchronized to holiday music, will run from Nov. 8 through Dec. 31.
City looks to outside help to help improve condition of parks
For the first time, Indy Parks is partnering with AmeriCorps on park beautification projects. It’s one of the many ways Indy Parks are looking for outside help in improving our park system.
McConnell says filibuster will stay as Republicans reclaim Senate
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said Republicans plan to keep the filibuster when it takes the majority in 2025.
What will happen to JD Vance's US Senate seat in January?
As JD Vance is poised to become the next vice president, his departure from the Senate leaves an opening in Ohio. Here is how the seat will be filled.
