Avian Flu Found in Backyard Flock in Douglas County
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Post updated at 4:41 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9:
A backyard flock of chickens in Baldwin City, Douglas County, was recently diagnosed with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), according to Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health.
Affected backyard flocks have been “humanely depopulated and disposed of in an approved manner” and are under the watch of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Agriculture, officials confirmed.
Contact tracing has been done, and individuals exposed to the flock prior to and during depopulation are being monitored for signs and symptoms of HPAI by LDCPH.
Low Risk to Public
The risk to the general public from this case is considered low, according to LDCPH. The department advises the public to avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals. If contact is necessary, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and face masks.
Wild birds can carry avian influenza viruses even if they appear healthy.
What Bird Owners Should Do
Poultry and domestic bird owners are urged to closely monitor their flocks for signs of avian influenza. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian or the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 833-765-2006.
This marks the 33rd case of avian influenza in Kansas this year. For more information on avian influenza, visit the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s website: agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza.
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