New Bird Flu Cases Detected in Southeast Iowa

The state's third and fourth cases of 2026 found in multi-species flocks in Van Buren and Keokuk counties.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship reported that new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as bird flu, have been detected in multi-species flocks located in Van Buren and Keokuk counties in southeastern Iowa. These mark the state's third and fourth cases of the virus detected so far in 2026.

Why it matters

Bird flu can be deadly to domestic poultry populations, and the state is urging producers and owners to continue using biosecurity protocols to protect their animals. While the risk to humans remains low, the CDC has reported 71 cases, including two deaths, nationwide since 2024.

The details

The new cases were found in multi-species flocks in the two southeastern Iowa counties. Bird flu, or H5N1 HPAI, can affect both wild and domestic birds, but it is often fatal to domestic populations. State officials are encouraging poultry producers and owners to maintain biosecurity measures to safeguard their animals.

  • The new cases were reported on February 25, 2026.

The players

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

The state agency that reported the new bird flu cases in Van Buren and Keokuk counties.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The federal agency that has reported 71 cases of bird flu in humans, including two deaths, nationwide since 2024.

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The takeaway

This latest outbreak of bird flu in Iowa highlights the ongoing need for poultry producers and owners to remain vigilant in their biosecurity practices to protect their flocks, as the virus can be highly dangerous to domestic birds. While the risk to humans is low, the CDC's recent case reports underscore the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness.