Highly pathogenic avian influenza confirmed in Caroline Co.

CAROLINE CO., Md. – Maryland state lab testing has reportedly detected a case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (HPAI) in Caroline County, officials announced on Tuesday.

We’re told an investigation by the Maryland Department of Agriculture has led to the preliminary confirmation that poultry from the affected farm has tested positive for HPAI. State officials have quarantined all affected premises and birds on the properties are being or have been depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease.

Officials say confirmation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory is pending with final results expected in the coming days.

The Maryland Department of Health says the risk of transmission between birds and the general public is low.

More information on avian influenza can be found here.