A positive sample was identified at a commercial turkey operation in Lenoir County, located in the eastern part of the state.

“It is unfortunate that we have this outbreak in a North Carolina poultry farm at this time,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler, “but we have handled this before, we have trained, and we have good partners. I am confident that we are as prepared as any state in the country to handle this.” 

This type of HPAI virus is considered a low risk to people but is highly contagious to other birds, including commercial and backyard flocks of poultry. The virus is also not considered a food safety threat and infected birds do not enter the food supply. Flocks within 10 kilometers of the infected farm will be tested for HPAI.

While the virus has been identified on only one farm thus far, the threat is statewide, said State Veterinarian Mike Martin. Commercial operations and backyard flock owners alike should follow strict biosecurity measures, including keeping birds enclosed without access to wild birds or other domestic flocks. 

Report higher-than-normal flock mortality rates to a veterinarian or to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Veterinary Division at 919.707.3250. Learn more at ncagr.gov/divisions/veterinary/avianinfluenza.