MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., March 6, 2025 — Livingston County Health Department officials are urging County residents to remain vigilant and take simple safety precautions as cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as H5N1 or bird flu, become more prevalent throughout the region.
A contagious disease affecting both domestic and wild poultry, bird flu spreads through contact with sick birds. To date, 42 flocks in New York State have tested positive for bird flu since February 2022, according to the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has launched a web-based form for the public to report deceased birds and suspected cases of avian influenza. The form is online at https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/dee381c0ee8a4114a83dc1892fc0f7ed. It will allow the NYSDEC to gather real-time location data for bird flu outbreaks and respond quickly to reports of sick birds. The County’s Health Department is recommending residents use the form to report deceased birds to the NYSDEC before taking further action.
The NYSDEC advises those with backyard poultry flocks to monitor their animals for illness, unexplained deaths, or sudden drops in egg production. If any of these signs are present, contact the state’s Division of Animal Industry immediately by calling 518-457-3502 or emailing dai@agriculture.ny.gov.
Although bird flu spreads through interaction with diseased birds, it can also be passed from person to person. While human cases are rare, they can happen when enough virus enters an individual’s eyes, nose, mouth, or is inhaled. Those who encounter deceased wild or domestic birds should avoid contact with the carcass and keep domestic animals away. Do not touch sick or dead birds, their feces or litter, or any surface or water source that may be contaminated with their saliva, feces, or any other bodily fluids without wearing personal protective equipment.
If the NYSDEC is unable to respond and removal of the body is necessary, the County’s Health Department recommends residents wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Use a shovel to avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids, and wash hands and clothing immediately after removal with soap and hot water. Carcasses should be triple bagged using garbage or contractor bags, and disposed of in an outdoor trash receptacle.
Sick individuals who suspect they may be infected with bird flu should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
For more on bird flu in New York State, visit the NYSDEC animal diseases page or read the Livingston County Health Department’s bird flu FAQ.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.