Strict Biosecurity Is Best Defense Against HPAI
Published: Friday, November 7, 2025
Elkhart and LaGrange counties have both seen additional cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) recently. With these new cases, it's important for all poultry and livestock owners to stay alert and continue practicing strong biosecurity measures.
According to Kathryn Jennings, Elkhart County Extension educator, be aware of the symptoms of HPAI and monitor your flock closely for any sudden changes in behavior, feed intake or unexplained deaths. If you notice signs of illness, limit movement on and off your farm and contact your local veterinarian or the Indiana State Board of Animal Health immediately.
Farmers are also encouraged to follow the strict biosecurity measures set for your farm. If you have been handling sick or dead birds, always change your clothes and boots before going to another location—and, even better, shower when possible.
Jennings says the same principle applies to all livestock species. If you have sick cows, quarantine them to prevent contact with the rest of the herd as soon as possible. Care for your sick animals only after feeding and tending to healthy ones, and always wash your hands and change clothes and footwear before leaving the farm, even if it's just to visit family, friends or the local store.
This is also a suggestion for returning to your farm, change clothing and boots before entering the barn so that you are not bringing illness into your barn.
Remember, viruses like HPAI can be transferred on equipment, clothing, footwear and even skin according to Jennings. Taking a few extra precautions helps protect not only your animals, but the entire agricultural community. This means that you should avoid sharing equipment between farms or thoroughly clean everything before it leaves the farm.
Clean and disinfect all tools and equipment used around sick animals, especially if they're being used for healthy animals as well. Effective disinfectants include a bleach solution (4 oz. bleach per gallon of water; laundry soap may be added, but never ammonia), Accel/Rescue products, Pine-
Sol. Remember: disinfectants only work on clean surfaces, so remove all dirt and debris before applying.
Wash your hands before and after handling animals. HPAI has been known to infect humans who work closely with infected animals, so proper hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential for your safety.
PPE: Includes: safety glasses, disposable gown, disposable boot covers, disposable mask and latex gloves.
Please be cautious and change clothing to help not only other farms, but also your own.
If you suspect avian influenza in your flock or herd, immediately contact the Indiana Board of Animal Health at 866/536-7593 or your local veterinarian.
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