Avian Flu
What is Avian Influenza (bird flu)?
Avian Influenza A (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu,
can be transmitted from bird to bird and can spread from
waterfowl (e.g. ducks, geese, swans) to domesticated poultry
when wild birds come into contact with outdoor flocks. Experts
from around the world are closely watching the H5N1 situation
in Asia and Europe very closely and are preparing for the
possibility that the virus may begin to spread more easily
from person to person.
How can I protect myself from Avian Influenza A (H5N1)?
Practicing good hand washing can help prevent the spread of
influenza. Please refer to proper
hand
washing techniques fact sheet (PDF) for more information.
Before traveling outside the country, it’s advised to check
online for travel advisories from the
Center for
Disease Control and the
World Health
Organization.
What should I do when I see a dead or sick bird?
Do not touch any dead bird with your bare hands. Be sure to
wear gloves or use a bag to pick up and dispose of a dead
bird.
** Please note: Only sick or dead waterfowl, gulls or
shorebirds will be laboratory tested for avian influenza; and
only if they are dead as a result of a die-off (a die-off is
defined as six or more birds found sick or dead in a short
time period). If you see a die-off of waterfowl (e.g.
gulls or shorebirds), please call the Department of Natural
Resources Wildlife Disease Lab at 517.336.5030 from 8:00 AM to
5:00 PM or after hours at 800.292.7800. You can also report
any sick or dead birds to the Department of Natural Resources
through this
online report form.
For More Information
With all the discussion in the media today regarding avian
influenza, it’s important to understand the latest and most
accurate facts. For local information, please call the Oakland
County Health Department at 248.858.1406 or toll free at
800.848.5533. For additional information, please visit the
following website links below:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
US
Department of Health and Human Services
Oakland County Health Division (PDF file)
Michigan Emerging Disease Issues
Michigan Department of Community Health
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