WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A flock of chickens has tested positive for bird flu in Whatcom County.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services says the flock, which also includes turkeys and ducks, will be depopulated to prevent any further spread.

Health officials are contacting those who may have had direct contact with the flock and advising them to watch for symptoms.

The risk of bird flu transmission is relatively low between humans and birds, but co-infection can occur if a person already has been diagnosed with another flu.

Washington state health officials are urging people not to handle dead or diseased birds without protection and to report them to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.