BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- The California State Veterinarian announced a ban on all exhibitions of poultry and dairy cattle at fairs to minimize any possible exposure and spread of bird flu. The ban took effect Jan. 7 and is in place until further notice, state officials said in a release. The Kern County Fair released a statement Thursday alerting local exhibitors about the potential impacts to this year's fair and for exhibitors to have a "back-up plan." "We know that fair is a significant time away, but we want to make sure we are communicating the most recent updates and changes to our stakeholders," Kern County Fair officials said in a release. "We know this significantly impacts projects and we want everyone to be up to date and able to make decisions based on the current environment. [...] As of now with the ban and early information we recommend that everyone have a back-up plan in case this ban isn't lifted. Fair officials said while the ban is in place until further notice, it was not clear if the ban would remain in place by the start of the 2025 Kern County Fair. "Currently we are hoping for improved protocols and producer enhancement to ensure that the status of the exhibitions changes before September." Could Bakersfield see wind-driven urban fires like those in LA County now? Absolutely The Kern County Fair is scheduled to take place from Sept. 17 through Sept. 28. Avian influenza -- bird flu -- is a highly contagious disease and often fatal disease for birds. The disease spreads through movement of infected birds. Dairy cattle have also been infected in recent outbreaks. In December, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency due to the spread of bird flu. Poultry and dairy cattle owners are encouraged by state and local officials to follow enhanced protocols to prevent the spread of the disease.