photo by: Contributed

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health is located at 200 Maine St.

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health was notified last week of a highly pathogenic avian influenza detection in a noncommercial backyard flock in Douglas County, the department said in a news release Monday.

The detection in Baldwin City occurred on Wednesday. The health department said it was working with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Department of Agriculture to respond to the detection.

The affected flock has been humanely disposed of to prevent the spread of disease, the release said. It didn’t specify how large the flock was. The health department has followed up with individuals who were exposed to the flock prior to and during extermination to ensure they are healthy. Those exposed will be monitored for signs and symptoms per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. The risk of avian influenza to the general public is low, the department said.

The health department recommends that people should avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry or other animals and to maintain an appropriate distance. If you must have direct or close contact, wear recommended personal protective equipment such as gloves and a face mask. Wild birds can be infected even if they don’t look sick.

Poultry and domestic bird owners should monitor their flocks and contact veterinarians or call KDA at 833-765-2006 if they have concerns. For more information, visit agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza or reach out to LDCPH at 785-843-3060.