A highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak has been linked to the deaths of over 60 Canada geese, swans, and other birds in Plymouth, Massachusetts. State officials are urging residents to avoid contact with sick or dead animals and report any cases to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.
State officials in Massachusetts announced that an outbreak of bird flu is likely responsible for the deaths of more than 60 Canada geese, swans, and other birds in Plymouth . The officials suspect an outbreak of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza ( HPAI ) has caused the wildlife deaths at Billington Sea, a 285-acre pond in Plymouth . Smaller suspected HPAI outbreaks have occurred at other undisclosed locations in Massachusetts in recent weeks, affecting less than 15 geese at each site.
Officials urge Massachusetts residents to avoid handling sick or dead animals. They emphasize the importance of prompt reporting to facilitate testing and diagnoses. The public is advised to report any sick or dead domesticated birds to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources by calling 617-626-1795.HPAI infections can occur in both wild and domesticated birds, though raptors, waterfowl, and other aquatic birds are at the highest risk. Wild animals that scavenge on birds, such as foxes, can also become infected. While human HPAI infections are rare, individuals with prolonged close contact with sick or dead birds face the greatest risk of infection. In areas experiencing HPAI outbreaks, pet owners are recommended to keep their animals indoors and away from wildlife
BIRD FLU AVIAN INFLUENZA HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA HPAI PLYMOUTH MASSACHUSETTS WILDLIFE PUBLIC HEALTH ANIMAL HEALTH
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Massachusetts officials suspect bird flu killed dozens of birds in PlymouthMassachusetts officials suspect more than 60 birds found dead in Plymouth died from bird flu, though official results may not come for days.
Read more »
Texas Officials Urge Residents to Remove Bird Feeders Amid Bird Flu RiseTexas health officials are advising residents to take down bird feeders and baths due to a surge in bird flu cases across the state, including Austin.
Read more »
Bird Flu Suspected in Wild Bird Deaths Across New JerseyMultiple wild birds in New Jersey have died, with bird flu suspected as the cause. The New Jersey Fish and Wildlife has reported at least seven snow geese, two Canada geese, and two hawks testing presumptive positive for avian influenza. While the risk to humans remains low, authorities urge hunters and the public to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
Read more »
Virus Hunters Track Global Threats from Flu to Bird FluDr. Rodgers, a virus hunter, discusses the constant evolution of viruses and the importance of global monitoring. She highlights the risks posed by circulating respiratory viruses like RSV, flu, and COVID-19, especially during the holiday season. Rodgers also emphasizes the need to watch avian influenza (H5N1) as human cases increase, despite remaining mild so far.
Read more »
CDC Urges Faster Flu Testing to Track Bird Flu SpreadThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued new guidance urging labs to determine within 24 hours if hospitalized patients with flu symptoms have seasonal influenza or bird flu (H5N1). This quicker turnaround time aims to identify potential bird flu cases earlier and track its spread more effectively. Currently, many hospitals send flu samples for testing in bulk every few days, delaying results and potentially compromising contact tracing and preventative measures.
Read more »
CDC Urges Hospitals to Test Flu Patients for Bird Flu Within 24 HoursThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued new guidance urging hospitals nationwide to determine within 24 hours if hospitalized patients with flu symptoms have seasonal influenza or bird flu (Avian Influenza). This change aims to improve real-time surveillance and identify potential cases of human-to-human transmission early.
Read more »