The risk of Avian Flu to Kansans remains low.

 

That's the latest from officials with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. However, KDHE also says people should practice caution around wild birds and backyard poultry because reports of the virus have been increasing nationwide.

 

The avian flu is primarily an infection of wild birds; however, in the ongoing outbreak beginning in early 2022, numerous animal species have been infected including domestic poultry, dairy cattle, wild carnivores like skunks and raccoons, and domestic cats. The virus is spread by migratory waterfowl, primarily ducks and geese.

 

KDHE Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dereck Totten says there has been no person-to-person spread and the risk to public health remains low.