H5N1 Avian Influenza detected in a Wild Canada Goose in Rockland County

A recent discovery by the RCDH is a fowl omen of a potential health hazard facing the county. Last week the Rockland County Department of Health announced the first bird to test positive for H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) had been found in Rockland County. It was recently confirmed by Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, that a wild Canada goose found at a lake in Rockland County tested positive for bird flu.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are responsible for conducting surveillance and testing for diseases, including avian influenza, among wild birds. Bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows with several recent human cases in U.S. dairy and poultry workers.

“Anyone who is a hunter, backyard flock owner, or works with sick or potentially infected animals are at higher risk for bird flu and appropriate precautions should be taken. Otherwise, for most people who do not come into direct contact with sick animals, the risk for bird flu is very low,” said Dr. Chitra Punjabi, Director of TB and Communicable Disease Control. 

Avoid contact with wild birds and other animals. When you get too close to wild animals, you risk hurting yourself or the animal, or risk getting a disease. If you find a dead bird or animal, don’t touch or pick it up with your bare hands. If removal of a dead animal is necessary, wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection, and avoid any direct contact with the dead animal by using a shovel.  The animal’s remains should be triple-bagged (garbage or contractor bags) and placed in an outdoor trash can.  When finished, wash your hands and clothing immediately with soap and hot water.

There is no need to report finding a single dead bird. However, if you find more than one dead bird in one place, please report it using the NYSDEC Avian Influenza Reporting form.

The RCDH also advises  that residents follow these additional tips:

– Stay a safe distance away. If an animal changes its behavior, you’re too close.

– If an animal is acting strangely, call animal control right away.

– Don’t pet or feed wildlife.

– If a wild animal approaches you, even if it seems friendly, slowly back away.

– Don’t adopt wild animals or bring them into your home, even temporarily.

– Never handle unfamiliar animals, even if they are someone else’s pets.

– Backyard Chicken Coop: Report sick poultry to NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets at (518) 457-3502.

For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention H5N1 page or wildlife page or New York State Department of Health.