Dare County DHHS addresses Avian Flu concerns and provides guidance for encountering dead wildlife

Dare County Department of Health & Human Services (DCDHHS) is issuing an important update regarding the ongoing surveillance of Highly Pathogenic Avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 or bird flu in Dare County. While avian flu primarily impacts birds, residents need to remain informed and take precautions, especially if they encounter dead wildlife.

“The current public health risk for HPAI is low, though we understand that finding dead wildlife can be concerning,” said DCDHHS Director Dr. Sheila Davies. “We are monitoring the HPAI threat closely and maintaining regular communication and surveillance with partnering agencies including the NC Department of Health and Human Services, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Residents are urged to take the following precautions if they come across dead birds or other wildlife:

• Do Not Touch: Avoid direct contact with wildlife, particularly dead wildlife. Many diseases can be transmitted through contact.
  • If you must dispose of dead wildlife found on your property, avoid direct contact with the animal. Use disposable gloves, a plastic bag, or other protective layer over your hands, or use a shovel to pick up the animal and place it into a garbage bag. Tie this bag and place it into a second garbage bag. Tie off the second bag and put it in the trash. You can also wear a face mask and eye protection if additional protection seems warranted. Always wash your hands with soap and water after disposing of any animal carcass.
• Report the Finding: Contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s (WRC) Wildlife Helpline at 866.318.2401, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. You can also email the helpline at HWI@ncwildlife.org.
• Keep Pets Away: Keep pets on a leash to prevent them from interacting with wildlife, particularly dead wildlife, to prevent potential exposure to diseases.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after outdoor activities and avoid areas with large concentrations of birds.
• Stay Informed: Follow updates from DCDHHS regarding avian flu and local wildlife health on our website and social media channels.

“There is a seasonal association with migratory patterns which can lead to new cases of HPAI” shared Dr. Davies.  “Colleagues with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission reported that migratory birds pass through North Carolina in the spring and fall as they travel between their breeding and wintering areas. During these times, traveling birds often congregate in large groups, allowing for the rapid spread of disease. Additionally, influenza viruses are typically cold hardy, and are therefore able to proliferate more easily during the cold winter months. For these reasons, we tend to see HPAI cases increase during the fall and winter months, with a lesser increase in cases during the spring migration and a decline in cases as temperatures warm in the late spring”.

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission provides tips on what the public can do about HPAI, including: reporting sick/dead wildlife to the NC Wildlife Helpline (Monday-Friday, 8 am – 5 pm) or anytime via the NC Wildlife Helpline email address. People can reduce human-caused spread of HPAI by removing food sources that encourage birds to congregate and feed in one location. Cease any feeding of wild ducks and geese. Consider removing bird feeders, especially near domestic poultry, or at least regularly sanitizing feeders and bird baths.

DCDHHS will continue to actively monitor public health concerns related to avian flu. Residents are encouraged to rely on official statements from involved entities for accurate and timely information.

Click here for more information from Dare County on Avian Flu.