Health Department Offers Guidance about Bird Flu

No local cases reported, low public health risk

Influenza H5N1, more commonly known as bird or avian flu, has been making national news in recent months, and there have been questions from local residents concerned about risk.  The Dutchess County Department of Health (DOH) reminds and reassures residents that avian flu remains classified as a “low” public health risk by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).   There have been no confirmed cases of bird flu in humans anywhere in New York State.

“With the popularity of backyard flocks and our diverse wildlife habitats, residents have asked about the risk of bird flu.  Fortunately, the public health risk of bird flu remains low,” said DOH Commissioner Dr. Livia Santiago-Rosado.  “Staying vigilant about animal exposures and following some simple steps is the best protection against bird flu.”

DOH suggests residents visit  CDC’s Bird Flu update page for the latest information and follow these easy steps to stay healthy and safe:

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds, livestock and other animals infected with bird flu
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or eggs
• Avoid handling sick wild or domestic birds including chickens and ducks
• Avoid consuming raw (unpasteurized) milk or dairy products
• Wash hands well and often

If you see sick or deceased birds, do not touch them.  Anyone concerned after finding a single deceased bird or poultry can report it through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) report page. If you see a group of dead birds or if several of your poultry flock are sick or have died, please contact the local DEC office directly at 845-256-3000. For more guidance on reporting, visit Reporting Dead Wildlife - NYSDEC.

For more information about the Dutchess County Department of Health, including clinical services and public health information, visit dutchessny.gov/health.