USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory on Nov. 13 confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in a backyard flock of chickens and ducks in Malheur County, Ore.

According to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, this is the first case of bird flu in the county, which is in the southeastern corner of the state.

Samples from the flock were first taken to the state Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University for testing. Lab staff confirmed the presence of bird flu Nov. 8.

Fewer than 10 birds were affected, as confirmed by State Veterinarian Ryan Scholz, said state Department of Agriculture communications director Andrea Cantu-Schomus. The exact number was not available.

All affected birds were humanely euthanized. The birds were not intended for the commercial food market and did not enter the food supply chain. The virus does not affect meat or egg products prepared and cooked properly.

Bird flu detections are higher in fall and spring as wild birds that spread the virus migrate, according to USDA.

“We do want to emphasize biosecurity,” Cantu-Schomus said. It’s important even for owners of few domestic birds and animals.

Biosecurity measures that ODA recommends include preventing exposure of domestic poultry and livestock to wildlife, especially wild waterfowl; limiting the commingling of different livestock species, especially poultry and pigs; cleaning vehicles, tools and equipment; limiting unnecessary visitors; and personal steps such as washing hands before and after handling flocks, sanitizing shoes and changing clothes after contact with birds.