A backyard flock in Douglas County was “humanely depopulated and disposed of in an approved manner” after testing positive for avian flu, according to Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health (LDCPH).

In a Monday news release, LDCPH stated that a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was confirmed last week in a noncommercial backyard flock of chickens in Baldwin City. The health department is collaborating with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) to address the situation.

Health officials have contacted individuals exposed to the flock during and before depopulation to ensure their well-being, following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Exposed individuals will be monitored for any symptoms. The department emphasized that the risk of HPAI to the general public is low.

LDCPH advises avoiding direct contact with sick or dead wild birds and using protective gear, such as gloves and masks, if contact is necessary. Bird owners should monitor their flocks for signs of HPAI and report concerns to their veterinarian or the KDA at 833-765-2006.

This marks the 33rd case of avian flu in Kansas this year, according to the KDA.