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Backyard poultry flock in Maricopa County tests positive for avian influenza

A flock of poultry in a Maricopa County backyard has tested positive for avian influenza, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

The virus was confirmed on Nov. 21 by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory after the flock's owner noticed signs of illness that were reported to the Sick Bird Hotline.

"ADHS is collaborating with AZDA and local health departments in the response to avian influenza and will continue to monitor influenza activity in Arizona in collaboration with local health departments. While the risk to the general public remains low, workers and individuals that may be at risk for exposure to avian influenza should follow public health guidance," said Nicole Witt, ADHS Assistant Director of Preparedness.

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Health care

Backyard poultry flock in Maricopa County tests positive for avian influenza

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A flock of poultry in a Maricopa County backyard has tested positive for avian influenza, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

The virus was confirmed on Nov. 21 by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory after the flock's owner noticed signs of illness that were reported to the Sick Bird Hotline.

"ADHS is collaborating with AZDA and local health departments in the response to avian influenza and will continue to monitor influenza activity in Arizona in collaboration with local health departments. While the risk to the general public remains low, workers and individuals that may be at risk for exposure to avian influenza should follow public health guidance," said Nicole Witt, ADHS Assistant Director of Preparedness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the risk to the general public is low outside of those who care for the animals on a daily basis.

The affected location, which was not identified in the press release, has been placed under quarantine and efforts have taken place to perform virus elimination.

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has seen a spike in poultry farms around the U.S. for the past two years. It resulted in the culling of millions of birds.

Earlier in November, ADHS and ADA said bird flu cases were found in a Pinal County poultry operation.

Officials said if people see signs of sick poultry, call the Sick Bird Hotline at 1-866-536-7593.

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