The disease is spread when healthy birds come into contact with an infected bird or an object contaminated by a diseased bird.

Scrapings of the mucosa from diseased birds can reveal oocysts.

The authorities said that no diseased birds had reached consumers and that the farm had been isolated.

Experts say there is no danger to humans from eating a diseased bird, so long as it is thoroughly cooked.

Since then, federal agriculture officials have set up inspection and quarantine stations at the borders to try to keep diseased birds out.

When inspectors find a diseased bird, they immediately quarantine the premises and remove all birds on the property, which are quickly killed using carbon dioxide gas.

A history of exposure to diseased birds has been found for the girl.

Humans cannot be infected with the flu by eating a diseased bird if it is thoroughly cooked.

Healthy birds are at increased risk of acquiring the disease through existing wounds or scabs when in close contact with diseased birds.

By keeping diseased birds in warmer temperatures and ensuring daily eye rinsing with 1-2% saline solution has also been shown to promote recovery.