Bird Flu Making Ways Towards Kansas

Although the risks to humans are low, the State Animal Health Commissioner wants everyone to

be aware of this year's strain of the Bird Flu.

LAWRENCE, Kan. - A deadly strain of avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in the United

States and making its way towards Kansas. The Bird Flu is a highly contagious virus that can

infect chickens, turkeys, geese, and other birds causing severe illness or death. This virus affects

both wildlife birds and domestic birds.

There is no public health threat to humans but Kansas Agriculture Officials are asking poultry

owners to take precautions and to be aware.

According to, Dr. Smith, Kansas Animal Health Commissioner, the Bird Flu is something they

anticipate each year and feel they have been watching it closely in European countries and have a

good eye on this virus.

The bird flu is not just infecting farm life birds, but also birds right in the backyard of some

homes.

Poultry owner, Jacob Burkett, has raised chickens for 15 years now and is currently caring for

seven chickens in his backyard.

“One of our hens got pretty sick so we had to separate her from the rest of the flock and give her a few

medications that we researched ourselves, and she ended up making it through it,” Burkett said.

The KDA wants poultry owners to be aware of creating that fine line between the backyard

coups and into your homes, as well as protecting your domestic birds from a wildlife flock.

For more information, confirmed cases, or any concerns about the Bird Flu go to the Kansas

Department of Agriculture’s website or call the KDA at 833-765-2006