Wisconsin to allow birds at fairs this summer as avian flu cases decline

 

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- The avian flu is dying down across the state, which means more restrictions are being lifted. 

The most recent case was in northern Wisconsin last month. 

The state lifted its order prohibiting freely transporting chickens and other birds just in time for Wisconsin's fair season. That's particularly big for smaller flock owners looking to move their birds to market.

"Whether it's a show swap, exhibition, the fairs, those events are really important to them," said Kevin Hoffman, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. 

"Agricultural kids don't have the opportunity like a sports kid to get in front of the public every week," said Terry Quam, Lodi Agriculture Fair board president. 

For those kids, animal exhibitions are something they look forward to every year. 

Experts say it is still possible for the avian flu to return to the population and it's something they are watching closely.