Gloucester County is monitoring presumed cases of bird flu in Canadian geese.
The cases are centered near Alcyon Lake in Pitman and other similar cases have been reported in other locations. The county Department of Health is taking steps to educate the community on the flu, its symptoms and preventative measures, and is collaborating with agriculture and wildlife agencies to assess risks to domestic birds and wildlife.
While bird flu is primarily an avian virus, the potential for human infection underscores the need for continuous surveillance and quick response, officials said. While the public’s current health risk is low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk.
The best way to protect against the flu is to avoid sources or exposure, as well as direct contact with wild birds or other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with viruses. Signs of infection in humans may include fever; cough; sore throat; muscle aches; and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.
How to avoid bird flu infection:
- – Don’t touch sick or dead animals or their droppings, or bring sick wild animals into your home.
- – Keep pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces.
- – Wash hands frequently.
- – Don’t eat uncooked or undercooked eggs, poultry, or beef, always cook to proper temperature.
- – Prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked food. Avoid uncooked food products such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses.
- – Talk to a doctor about seasonal flu vaccination.
- – Keep a birdfeeder in the area of a yard that one doesn’t frequent.
- – Do not feed a cat or dog raw diet.
- – Report dead or sick domestic birds or animals.
If you’re exposed to sick or dead birds or other animals or work on a farm where avian influenza has been detected, watch for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis for 10 days.
For more information, call (856) 218-4102.
