Bird Flu Hits Central Indiana: Nearly 19,000 Turkeys Affected in Boone County

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detected at commercial poultry operation in Boone County

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, at a commercial breeder turkey farm in Boone County, central Indiana. The affected farm housed 18,763 birds. This marks the first confirmed case of HPAI in central Indiana since January 2025.

Why it matters

Indiana is a major poultry-producing state, ranking fourth nationally in turkey production and leading the nation in duck production. The detection of HPAI raises concerns about the potential spread of the virus to other poultry farms in the region and the impact on the state's poultry industry.

The details

In response to the Boone County case, state animal health officials have established a 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) control zone surrounding the affected site, covering parts of Boone and Clinton counties. Poultry and dairy farms within this area will undergo testing for the virus. Additionally, a 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) surveillance zone has been implemented across portions of Boone, Clinton, Hamilton, and Tipton counties.

  • The virus was detected at the Boone County farm on February 18, 2026.
  • In January 2025, HPAI was identified in a small, non-commercial hobby flock of 44 birds in Shelby County.

The players

Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH)

The state agency responsible for monitoring and responding to animal health issues, including the detection of HPAI at the Boone County farm.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The federal agency that emphasizes that HPAI does not pose a food safety risk, and that properly cooked poultry and eggs, as well as pasteurized dairy products, remain safe for consumption.

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What they’re saying

“Federal officials emphasize that HPAI does not pose a food safety risk. Properly cooked poultry and eggs, as well as pasteurized dairy products, remain safe for consumption.”

— U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) (hoosieragtoday.com)

What’s next

Poultry and dairy farms within the 10-kilometer control zone will undergo testing for the HPAI virus. The 20-kilometer surveillance zone will also be monitored closely for any further spread of the virus.

The takeaway

The detection of HPAI at a commercial turkey farm in Boone County highlights the ongoing threat of avian influenza outbreaks in Indiana's poultry industry. Strict biosecurity measures and vigilant monitoring will be crucial to containing the spread of the virus and protecting the state's poultry production.