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The Maryland Department of Agriculture issued an alert this week regarding the spread of H5N1 avian influenza that was reported in a backyard flock this week.
Officials say that they have "quarantined all affected premises, and birds on the properties are being or have been depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease."
Birds from the affected flocks will not enter the food system, they noted.
"Avian influenza is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads easily among birds through nasal and eye secretions, as well as manure," the department said.
"The virus can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers."
The virus affects chickens, ducks, and turkeys, along with some wild bird species such as ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.
Confirmation of the virus from the US Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Lab is still pending, with final results expected in several days, according to officials.
“The latest non-negative result should serve as a reminder for all poultry growers, operators, and backyard flock owners to remain vigilant when it comes to the threat of (bird flu), especially as the spring migratory season begins,” Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks said.
“Regardless of flock size, biosecurity remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of this disease among poultry.”
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