Thursday, January 8, 2026- A backyard flock in Franklin County, North Carolina, has tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), state agriculture officials confirmed.
The case was identified by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ veterinary diagnostic laboratory, marking the first confirmed bird flu case in Franklin County and the ninth reported statewide since October 2025. Officials say the virus spreads quickly among birds and is highly contagious to other flocks, though the risk to humans remains low.
Bird flu, which is often carried by migratory wild birds, continues to appear in domestic poultry across North Carolina, affecting both backyard and commercial flocks. Authorities stress that infected birds do not enter the food supply and that there is no direct food safety concern.
However, the case highlights the continued presence of the virus in bird populations and the importance of strong biosecurity practices, including limiting access to poultry areas, disinfecting equipment, and closely monitoring bird health.
State veterinarians are urging poultry owners to remain alert for sudden illness or unexplained deaths among birds and to report concerns immediately. Surveillance and rapid response efforts are underway to contain the virus and reduce the risk of further spread. The situation reflects a broader, ongoing animal health challenge as avian influenza continues circulating among bird populations this season.
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