Avian flu case found in Franklin County chicken flock

FRANKLIN COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- The North Carolina Department of Agriculture has reported a case of the avian flu after a flock of poultry in a backyard in Franklin County tested positive for the virus.

It's the first confirmed case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Franklin County, and the ninth confirmed case in the state since Oct. 1.

Experts said this kind of influenza is considered low risk to people, and the virus is also not considered a food safety threat.

"HPAI has been found in wild birds throughout the state, so reports of positive backyard flocks will likely happen on occasion," said Dr. Mike Martin, state veterinarian. "I encourage our commercial and backyard flock owners to continue to follow strict biosecurity measures, and if your flock is experiencing a sudden higher-than-normal mortality rate, report it right away to your local veterinarian."