Avian Flu

Avian influenza ("bird flu") refers to flu viruses adapted to birds. Although it occurs naturally in wild aquatic birds and can infect domestic poultry and other species, it rarely occurs in humans. However, public health officials continue to monitor recent outbreaks closely. Recent human cases have largely occurred among poultry and dairy workers. People who work with infected wild birds are at increased risk of infection and should follow precautions.

Behind the Headlines - Understanding Bird Flu (Video)

Symptoms

Bird flu symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza symptoms:

• Mild illness: cough, sore throat, eye redness or eye discharge such as conjunctivitis, fever or feeling feverish, rhinorrhea, fatigue, myalgia, arthralgia, headache
• Moderate to severe illness: shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, altered mental status, seizures
• Complications can include pneumonia, respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, multi-organ failure (respiratory and kidney failure), sepsis and meningoencephalitis.

People are thought to be most contagious during the first few days of their illness. Individuals with severe disease (e.g., pneumonia) requiring hospitalization may have high levels of virus in the lower respiratory tract and may be contagious for several weeks.

Any person who develops signs or symptoms of acute respiratory illness or conjunctivitis after high risk of exposure should be isolated and tested for bird flu.

Treatment

If exposure is suspected, contact your doctor or urgent care, who should contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to arrange testing.

People exposed to infected birds or other animals should be monitored for signs and symptoms of acute respiratory illness beginning after their first exposure and for 10 days after their last exposure.

If symptomatic, please wear a mask and inform them of their possible exposure and concern.

Prevention

People should avoid direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with bird flu. If you must have direct/close contact with infected or potentially infected birds or other animals, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).

Do not touch or consume raw milk or raw milk products, especially from animals with confirmed or suspected bird flu virus infection.

Report Suspected Cases in Birds

The public should report observations of sick or deceased wild birds if 5 or more birds are found at a single location to Worcester 311. Common wild birds include birds other than poultry and caged birds, including birds of prey: hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, owls.

The public should report any sick or dead poultry or other domestic birds to Worcester 311. Common domestic birds include chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, pigeons, canaries and parakeets.

Livestock & Poultry

Since wild migratory birds are natural carriers for bird flu, preventing wild birds from mixing with or having contact with domestic flocks is essential to disease control and prevention.

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