— Information courtesy of Franklin County Public Information Officer James F. Hicks, III
Franklin County has recorded its first case of H5N1 avian influenza in poultry.
Avian influenza – commonly known as bird flu – was first reported on Jan. 1, 2026, in Franklin County. Poultry in a backyard flock tested positive for the disease.
“It is important for owners of commercial birds and backyard flocks take preventive measures to keep their birds healthy and safe,” said Charles Mitchell, Franklin County Cooperative Extension Director.
Commercial and backyard bird owners should take heightened precautions to prevent the spread of avian influenza. The Center for Disease Control and the United States Department of Agriculture have resources to keep birds and their owners safe:
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/caring/index.html
USDA: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/defend-the-flock/resources
While human cases of bird flu are not as common, individuals handling infected birds or other infected animals should use proper personal protective equipment to reduce exposure.
