**Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Whatcom County Backyard Flock**

A backyard flock of birds in Whatcom County has been confirmed positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza, as reported by Whatcom County Health and Community Services on November 20. While the possibility of bird flu transmission to humans exists, the general public’s risk remains low. However, individuals who have direct interactions with infected animals face a higher risk.

The affected flock comprises approximately 20 mixed-species birds, including turkeys, chickens, and ducks. In an effort to mitigate the spread of the virus, the remaining birds in the flock have been "depopulated," according to county officials.

Authorities have advised those who frequently interact with birds, such as hobbyists, agricultural workers, and hunters, to use protective gear and get vaccinated against the seasonal flu. It's also recommended that people with backyard birds minimize their birds' exposure to wild animals to help prevent further spread of the disease.

Although no widely available vaccine for bird flu currently exists, receiving an annual seasonal flu vaccine can lower the risk of co-infection. The county has been actively monitoring the avian flu situation since its initial detection in Washington in 2022. As of now, there are no confirmed human cases of the HS5NI strain in Whatcom County, though there have been human cases in Washington state and British Columbia.

Residents with flocks are urged to report any sick or dead domestic birds and livestock to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. People should also avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals, as well as environments that may be contaminated with feces, nasal secretions, saliva, or raw milk from potentially infected animals.