A new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has struck a commercial turkey facility in Beadle County, South Dakota, impacting approximately 36,000 birds. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the case on April 8, 2025. This incident marks the 16th recorded HPAI case in Beadle County since early 2022, bringing the total number of affected turkeys in the county to a staggering 825,000.
South Dakota is facing a significant challenge in controlling the spread of avian flu, ranking second in the nation for HPAI cases since February 2022. The state has reported 115 affected commercial flocks, with over 6.1 million birds impacted. While national trends indicate a decline in avian flu cases, South Dakota remains a hotspot, raising concerns for local farmers and the broader agricultural industry.
State and federal agencies are working to contain the outbreak, implementing biosecurity measures and providing support to affected producers. The economic impact of these outbreaks can be substantial, affecting not only turkey farms but also related industries such as processing and transportation. Consumers may also see fluctuations in turkey prices as a result of reduced supply.
The situation in South Dakota highlights the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza to poultry farms across the country. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to protect the health of poultry flocks and ensure the stability of the agricultural sector.