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Avian Flu Confirmed at Western Kentucky Poultry Farm

Flickr/Creative Commons/David Duran

A case of avian influenza has been detected in a commercial poultry flock in western Kentucky. 

A national veterinary lab confirmed the presence of H7N9, a low pathogenic avian flu.  The virus was detected last week at a Christian County commercial poultry operation during a routine pre-slaughter test. 

State Veterinarian Robert Stout says there were no clinical signs of disease in the birds.  The affected area is under quarantine and the flock of about 22,000 hens was euthanized as a precaution.  Flocks within a six-mile radius of the farm are also under surveillance.  The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is urging poultry producers to take the following measures to prevent their birds from being exposed to the virus:

  • Keep your distance – Isolate your birds from visitors and other birds.
  • Keep it clean – Prevent germs from spreading by cleaning shoes, tools and equipment.
  • Don’t haul disease home – Clean vehicles and cages.
  • Don’t borrow from your neighbor – Avoid sharing tools and equipment with neighbors.
  • Know the signs – Watch for early signs to prevent the spread of disease.
  • Report sick birds – Report unusual signs of disease or unexpected deaths to the Office of the Kentucky State Veterinarian at (502) 573-0282 or through USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593.

Avian flu viruses normally don’t infect humans.

Lisa is a Scottsville native and WKU alum. She has worked in radio as a news reporter and anchor for 18 years. Prior to joining WKU Public Radio, she most recently worked at WHAS in Louisville and WLAC in Nashville. She has received numerous awards from the Associated Press, including Best Reporter in Kentucky. Many of her stories have been heard on NPR.
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