The first of the novel influenza virus cases in humans were detected earlier this week in two people working with infected poultry at a commercial site in Pinal County.

The first case of human H5 bird flu in Arizona has been detected in Pinal County, officials confirm. On Friday, the Arizona Department of Health Services confirmed two cases and stated both individuals were exposed to infected poultry while working at a commercial facility.

A spokesperson for the agency said: "All bird keepers should remain vigilant and follow stringent biosecurity measures to prevent future outbreaks." The news comes as a number of confirmed and suspected bird flu cases have also been reported in Norfolk.