Poultry at an Ulster County farm have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), more commonly known as bird flu, the Ulster County Department of Health said Thursday.

The virus killed all but two of the farm's approximately 50 chickens and ducks. Based on the recommendation of the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, the remaining two birds were euthanized to prevent further spread of the disease.

The farm's owners and a veterinarian who made a house call to the property are being monitored by the Ulster County Department of Health for 10 days, as they had limited contact with the infected birds. The county has not revealed the location of the farm.

The case is part of an outbreak of avian influenza that has been ongoing in the US since early 2024 and has primarily affected wild birds, farmed birds, and dairy cows. Workers on dairy, poultry, and culling farms are considered to be at the highest risk of exposure.

“People working with poultry should consider wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in close proximity to the birds,” said Ulster County Public Health Director Eve Walter. “All residents should avoid handling a wild or domestic sick or dead bird.”

The risk to humans is considered low for those not in direct contact with sick animals, but the Ulster County Department of Health says that if you or someone you know has had potential exposure, it's important to contact a health professional. They can be reached at (845) 340-3070.

Surveillance of milk is ongoing at the national level, and no human cases have been detected in New York State. There are also no known cases involving domestic pets, but they should also be kept away from dead birds or animals.

Bird owners who notice severe illness or unusual death in their backyard flocks should report it to the state Department of Agriculture and Markets Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or a local veterinarian.

Kingston Wire reached out to the county for more information about the location of the farm. A county spokesperson said that they intend to keep it anonymous to avoid economic impact to the farmers and to not deter other farms from reporting exposure.