A second case of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in Lincoln County.
The Department of Agriculture said Thursday that a second commercial chicken breeder flock has been sickened in Lincoln County.
More: Avian Influenza Found In Lincoln County Chicken Flock
In early-March, a strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as HPAI, caused a commercial chicken breeder flock in the same area to become sick.
The state veterinarian confirmed this second flock was sickened within the existing controlled quarantined zone. The two areas are less than two miles apart.
Ag officials said operators at the second premises were closely monitoring and regularly testing poultry for signs of avian influenza.
“Wild birds can carry this strain of avian influenza.” State Veterinarian Dr. Charles Hatcher said. “Given the close proximity of the two premises, this is not unexpected. We will continue to execute our plan, working quickly to prevent the virus from spreading further.”
Officials said neither HPAI nor LPAI pose a risk to the food supply. No affected animals entered the food chain.
