Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

About

Avian Influenza, also called "Bird Flu", or H5N1, is a virus that causes highly infectious respiratory disease in birds and other mammals such as cows, foxes, bears, cats, dogs, and others. Infections in humans, while rare, can range in symptoms from mild to severe. Most cases in the U.S. have been mild, with "flu-like" symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever, body aches, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and conjunctivitis (redness in eyes). The first human death from Avian Inflienza occurred on January 6, 2025 in Louisiana after contact with backyard flocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I protect myself from Avian Influenza?

Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild or domestic birds.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching birds or equipment that has come in contact with birds.
If you must contact sick or dead birds, wear personal protective equipment such as disposable gloves and a mask.
Do not consume raw milk or undercooked poultry.

What should I do if I find sick or dead birds in my backyard?

Avoid contact with sick or dead wild or domestic birds.
If you see sick or dead birds (5 or more) in one place, it is encouraged that you report it.
- Domestic birds (chickens, turkeys, quail, geese, ducks, pheasants and guinea fowl, should be reported to the CT Department of Agriculture at (860) 703-2505 or by email at ctstate.vet@ct.gov
- Wild birds should be reported to the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection at (860) 424-3011 or online: Wild Bird Mortality Reporting Survey
- Dead birds not submitted for testing can be discarded by wearing disposable gloves or using a shovel to place them in a plastic bag. If you do not have disposable gloves, put your hand in a plastic bag, grab the bird through the bag, then pull the bag back over your hand. Tie the bag and place into a second bag ("double bag"). Dispose of the bag in your regular trash. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Can I get Avian Influenza from eating poultry or eggs?

Poultry and eggs that are properly prepared and cooked are safe to eat.
Poultry should be cooked to at least 165°F using a meat thermometer. Eggs should be cooked to at least 160°F. For hard boiled eggs, follow the recipe here: Safe Hard Boiled Eggs
Wash hands with soap and warm water after touching raw poultry and eggs.
Clean and sanitize surfaces and kitchen equipment (cutting boards, knives, etc.) that come in contact with raw poultry or eggs. Follow the instructions here: Clean THEN Sanitize: A One-Two Punch to Stop Foodborne Illness in the Kitchen

How about Dairy Cattle?

Dairy cattle can become infected with Avian Inflenza by coming into contact with infected wild or domestic birds.
Avoid consuming raw milk or raw milk products.
Sick or dead dairy cattle should be reported to the CT Department of Agriculture at (860) 703-2505 or by email at ctstate.vet@ct.gov