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The Hays County Health Department (HCHD) received notification on Feb. 21 from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that a dead wild bird from the northwestern area of Hays County tested positive for avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
“The health department wants to assure the public that the threat and risk continue to remain low for human transmission within the community,” said Hays County Health Department Manager Matthew Gonzales. “Health department staff will continue to monitor the development of bird flu in Hays County in coordination with DSHS and the CDC.”
Human infections are uncommon, and at this time there is no known person-to-person spread. However, those who work with wild birds, poultry, or dairy cows – or have direct contact during recreational exposure to these animals – are at a greater risk for contracting bird flu if exposed to a sick or infected animal.
Disease experts indicate avian influenza is circulating among wild birds in Texas as waterbirds and waterfowl visit their wintering grounds. Widespread detections have occurred across Texas, including in Travis county.
In early February, bird flu was confirmed in multiple black vultures recovered at Landa Park in New Braunfels.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) said the public can assist in interrupting bird flu transmission by limiting all unnecessary contact with wild birds, including the discontinuation of feeding and other activities that cause waterfowl to congregate in parks.
In addition, taking down all bird feeders and bird baths is recommended, as these allow birds to congregate, increasing the chance of disease exposure if present. People who choose to leave bird feeders and bird baths out are asked to clean them several times each week with a ten percent bleach solution and watch for signs of disease.
TPWD also advises wildlife rehabilitators to exercise caution when admitting wild animals showing clinical signs of bird flu and to refrain from admitting any birds exhibiting such symptoms.
People are encouraged to contact a local TPWD wildlife biologist if they encounter a wild animal with signs consistent with avian influenza. This can include sudden death without any warning signs, respiratory distress, tremors, seizures, and swelling, discoloration or discharge from the eyes.
The CDC recommends avoiding sources of exposure as the best way to protect yourself and others from bird flu. That means avoiding direct contact with wild birds and other animals. Wild animals could potentially be infected with bird flu or other pathogens. Tips to avoid exposure include:
• Do not touch sick or dead animals or their droppings, and do not bring sick wild animals into your home.
• Keep your pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces.
• Avoid uncooked food products such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses.
• If you experience illness after contact with sick or dead birds, please contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.
More information about avian influenza in humans can be found from the Texas Department of State Health Services at www.dshs.texas.gov.
