Poultry shows, meets suspended

In an effort to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is suspending all poultry shows, exhibitions, swap meets and movement of poultry to other events in Jefferson, Waukesha, Walworth and Rock counties in Wisconsin, through Dec. 31.

Poultry owners and those working with poultry are strongly encouraged to continue practicing strict biosecurity to protect their flocks. When possible, poultry owners are asked to keep their flocks indoors to prevent contact with wild birds. Visit datcp.wi.gov and search for "biosecurity" for more information.

Signs of HPAI in infected birds include

• sudden death without clinical signs;

• lack of energy or appetite;

• decrease in egg production, or soft and misshapen eggs;

• purple discoloration of wattles, comb and legs;

• difficulty breathing;

• runny nose, coughing or sneezing;

• stumbling or falling down; and

• diarrhea.