A “highly pathogenic” form of bird flu was detected in a backyard flock of chickens in Suffolk County, New York, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The virus was detected in a small, non-commercial backyard block that was not being used for poultry purposes, the agency said. The USDA said it is now “working closely with state animal health officials in New York on a joint incident response,” according to the statement. “State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.” No human cases of avian influenza have been detected in the United States. And recent detections of the virus in other states in February do not present an immediate health concern, the agency said. “As a reminder, the proper handling and cooking of poultry and …
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