(ND Ag Connection) – North Dakota’s Department of Agriculture has discovered highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in backyard chickens in Williams County, according to experts at North Dakota State University. The discovery, which is a significant development, is a significant step towards preventing future bird flu outbreaks.

The State Board of Animal Health and the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with USDA-APHIS and local officials, have implemented a quarantine to prevent the spread of a disease affecting chickens. This has led to the depopulation of the flock, a difficult but necessary decision to protect other birds and prevent the spread of the disease.

Because of this, there are going to be some changes in Williams County. For now, they’ve put a pause on events where birds from different places can mix and mingle. This is just a safety step, and if all goes well and no new cases pop up in 30 days, things can go back to normal.

Bird flu poses a low risk to humans, as no one in the U.S. has ever contracted the viruses found in these birds, despite its negative impact on birds.

Dr. Ethan Andress, the State Veterinarian, advises limiting property access, separating wild birds from pet or farm birds, and prioritizing biosecurity. This includes keeping birds indoors during certain times of the year, especially during migration, to ensure the safety of wild birds.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring emphasized that despite reduced bird flu cases in wild birds, the disease can still be transmitted to domestic birds or farms through contact with sick birds or contaminated food or drink.