The infected chickens typically do not live longer than 48 hours after contracting the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ohio has been experiencing the highest levels of bird flu outbreaks in the nation,

The first case of bird flu in a human in Ohio has been reported, according to officials. A farm worker from Mercer County, Ohio, located on the state's western border along Indiana, came into contact with deceased poultry that was infected with the virus,

Anxieties are high as experts warn the avian flu outbreak could worsen in the spring, but egg prices are spurring more newcomers to start backyard flocks.

Baile, who at one time visited nursing homes and events for autistic children with her “therapy chickens,” is adhering to a detailed protocol now to protect her flock from migratory birds, waterfowl and anyone who may have come in contact with them.