Post updated at 4:41 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9:
A backyard flock in Douglas County has been “humanely depopulated and disposed of in an approved manner” after they were detected to have avian flu, according to the health department.
Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health said in a news release Monday that the department was notified last week of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a noncommercial backyard flock. It was a flock of chickens in Baldwin City, according to LDCPH.
LDCPH is working with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Department of Agriculture to respond, according to the release.
“LDCPH has followed up with individuals that were exposed to the flock prior to and during depopulation to ensure they are healthy,” according to the release. “Those exposed will be monitored for signs and symptoms per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.”
The health department said the risk of HPAI to the general public is low.
“LDCPH recommends that people should avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals and to maintain an appropriate distance,” according to the release. “If you must have direct or close contact, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and face mask. Wild birds can be infected with avian influenza A viruses even if they don’t look sick.”
The department recommends that poultry and domestic bird owners monitor their flocks, and if your birds show signs of HPAI, contact your vet or call the department of agriculture at 833-765-2006. You can reach LDCPH at 785-843-3060.
The Douglas County case is the 33rd in Kansas so far this year, according to the KDA. Learn more about HPAI on its website at agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza.
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