(NAFB.com) – State agriculture officials confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock of chickens and ducks in Dallas County, Iowa, marking the state’s latest detection of the virus. The Iowa Department of Agriculture said the affected birds were euthanized to prevent the spread of the disease, and quarantine measures were put in place around the premises. No commercial poultry facilities have been affected. Officials urged poultry owners to strengthen biosecurity practices, including limiting contact between domestic birds and wild waterfowl, which are known carriers of the virus. The detection comes as migratory birds move through the Midwest, increasing the risk of additional cases. While the virus poses little risk to the general public, it can be deadly to poultry and disruptive to farm operations. State and federal animal health officials continue monitoring flocks and working with producers to reduce the threat of further outbreaks.