Deadly virus detected in flock of commercial chickens; officials say not a food safety risk

FRANKLIN, Ky. – A deadly virus detected in a flock of commercial chickens has the Kentucky Department Of Agriculture searching for answers tonight.

As of Tuesday, Kentucky and Tennessee are working together after the USDA confirmed a case of avian flu at a chicken operation in Fulton County Kentucky near the Tennessee border.

Authorities say the chicken operation alerted the Kentucky Department of Agriculture about an increase in poultry deaths on Friday.

Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles says the Department Of Agriculture is working with animal health officials at both the state and federal level to contain the outbreak.

Kentucky Department of Agriculture State Veterinarian Dr. Katie Flynn said, “Avian Influenza does not pose a food safety risk. Poultry, poultry products and eggs are safe to eat when cooked properly. There have been no human cases of Avian Influenza in the United States.” 

News 40 will keep you provided with updates.