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South Dakota sees uptick in HPAI cases as fall migration begins

Highly pathogenic avian influenza cases are increasing in South Dakota as the fall migration continues.

State veterinarian Dr. Mendel Miller says there have been at least six confirmations since the start of August, mostly with commercial breeders and turkey farms.

“It seems early for the migraration. It’s certaintly not in full force, but there is some waterfowl that migrate earlier than others. Last year, our first case was in August. This year, it was in August as well. We found it 10 days early.”

Miller says HPAI response hasn’t changed a lot in the last few years, and many producers know how to identify it in their flocks. However…

“Make sure you’re observing your animals. Early detection is important and working with your veterinarian when there’s a health issue that pops up.”

Neighboring states, like Minnesota, have also seen an uptick in HPAI confirmations, with the latest confirmations in turkey flocks last week.