Avian Influenza

For current informaton, please refer to the CDC website: H5N1 Bird Flu: CDC Current Situation

 

**UPDATE 2/7/2024**

• When reporting wild birds, the public should report observations of any sick, injured, or deceased seabirds. 
• For other species of wild birds, such as songbirds, only report observations of 5 or more birds found at a single location. 
• The public can report observations using the simple webform at Report observations of dead wild birds | Mass.gov
•  Report sick or dead birds!
  • Wild: Mass Wildlife at 508-389-6300   OR,   USDA Wildlife Services at 866-  487-3297
  • Domestic:  MDAR Animal Health: Call 617-626-1795 or use the online Poultry Disease Reporting Form OR, USDA Veterinary Services: Call 866-536-7593   

 

     The presence of dead sea birds on the beach, and in the wrack line is not unusual, especially after a storm. However, starting in early 2022 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was detected in birds on Cape Cod. (See previous updates below.) We have observed sick or dead waterbirds on our beaches, such as ducks, geese, and gannets, and we have reached out to our State and Federal partners to ensure that they are aware of conditions here on the Outer Cape. It is important to note that not all sick or dead birds have been infected with Avian influenza and that there are different strains, some of which have lower pathogenicity.

     According to the CDC, the human risk to the general population is low and they continue to remind people to avoid contact with birds that appear ill, and to avoid contact with surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from wild or domestic birds. A concern has been raised about whether dead birds on the beach are a hazard for dogs, or children. Children should be instructed to avoid contact with wild birds. The USDA has informed us that there have been no reported cases of viral spillover to hunting dogs, but you should keep your pets away from dead birds as much as possible.

     We have heard that residents may be removing any dead birds they observe on a beach. Please do not pick up sick or dead birds. Individual dead birds do not generally require testing or removal, but if a private property owner wishes to dispose of any dead birds from their own property, they should wear appropriate protective gear (mask, gloves, boots). The boots should be washed with a bleach and water solution before visiting any domestic birds such as chickens. 

 

Domestic Birds and Avian Influenza:

While the danger to humans is low there is a major concern about HPAI spreading from wild birds to domestic birds such as chickens or geese. This can be devastating to domestic flocks. If you keep chickens or other domestic birds, please see this link for ways you can protect your flock.