Another case of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in Indiana. The latest case was detected in a non-commercial hobby flock in Randolph County. Indiana’s State Board of Animal Health says 70 birds will be depopulated.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), along with federal and local officials, is investigating an increased drone presence in the state.

The recent uptick of highly pathogenic avian influenza across the state of Indiana has producers on high alert to curb the spread of the virus. Denise Derrer Spears with Indiana’s State Board of Animal Health says more than a six mile barrier is put in place immediately following a positive test result.

In related developments, West Virginia officials suspended poultry exhibitions and Massachusetts warned of sick and dead birds across several cities.

Avian influenza, H5N1 or bird flu is a virus that is spreading throughout the United States. While the risk to the public remains low at

"Many of these drones have been reported flying over farms identified by the Board of Animal Health, and some reports have surfaced of people shooting at the drones to bring them down," state officials said.

A devastating avian flu outbreak in Jackson County has resulted in the culling of 2.8 million egg-laying hens. This marks the

State agencies are issuing avian influenza (HPAI) precautions after detection of the virus in locations they manage. Although the chance of encountering a diseased animal—even less of catching or transmitting it—the safety steps are simple and procedures most readers likely already follow.

Avian influenza, commonly called the bird flu, is infecting waterfowl in the Tippecanoe County area, according to the Indiana DNR.

Hoosiers are encouraged to report drone activity near quarantine sites to local law enforcement. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security, along with local and federal officials, continue to monitor an increase in drone activity near sites where outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza have been

Local businesses are getting hit hard by climbing egg prices, and a recent bird flu outbreak at a Southern Indiana farm could drive up the cost of the essential ingredient even more.WLKY's NewsChopper captured video of crews in hazmat suits at Cort Acres Egg Farm in Seymour on Thursday morning.