Arkansas chicken confirmed with avian influenza

Jun. 20, 2013, Little Rock, AK – State officials have confirmed that a chicken in Scott County has avian influenza, and the areas around the farm has been quarantined.

The Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission say that the chicken tested positive for the low-pathogenic H7N7 avian influenza. The United States Department of Agriculture has been contacted and is working with local authorities.

The Associated Press is reporting that recent flooding is likely the cause of the infection, which can spread by contaminated water. However, there is no public health hazard as long as the poultry is cooked properly.