A backyard poultry flock in South Kitsap tested positive for the bird flu after the owner reported sick and dying birds, the state Department of Agriculture says in a news release Oct. 23.

Samples were confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory Oct. 18.

The Kitsap Public Health District contacted people exposed to the infected birds, providing health guidance and symptom monitoring. No human illnesses have been reported, and the district assessed minimal public risk.

Dr. Gib Morrow, KPHD health officer, urged bird owners: “If you have a backyard flock of chickens, ducks or other poultry, pay attention to their health. Avoid handling sick birds and report any concerns so that testing can be done if needed.”

Oct. 16 WSDA reported avian flu in a large commercial poultry flock in Franklin County. On Oct. 20, the state Department of Health announced that four workers at the Franklin County facility had tested positive for bird flu, marking the first potential human cases of H5 avian influenza under investigation in Washington. The workers experienced mild symptoms, and confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is pending.

Avian flu is caused by a virus spread by wild birds that can infect domestic poultry and other animals. Human infections are rare, usually occurring after prolonged, close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.

Poultry owners are advised to prevent their flocks from interacting with wild birds and to wear protective gear when handling sick birds or cleaning areas that may be contaminated. WSDA encourages reporting any sick or dead poultry at 1-800-606-3056. Wildlife incidents should be reported online to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.