SWAMPSCOTT — The Health Department released a statement yesterday aimed at educating residents on the rising presence of the Avian Influenza, and how they can stay healthy during a time of uncertainty.
Both state environmentalists and health officials are rallying together to combat the rising issue. According to the statement, the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), is currently suspected of being the cause of over 60 deceased Canada geese, swans and other birds in Plymouth.
The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (Mass Wild Life), the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) are working in collaboration to advise the public on refraining from handling birds, or other animals, that appear dead or sick.
“Both wild and domestic birds can become infected with HPAI,” the statement said. “Raptors, waterfowl and other aquatic birds are most at-risk for infection, although any bird species should be considered susceptible.” The statement noted that birds can be affected by HPAI without showing any signs of illness.
The statement went into a number of different actions residents can take if they happen to spot something suspicious. The public is encouraged to report observations of sick or dead birds, if five or more birds are found at a single location. People can report their observations at mass.gov/reportbirds.
The public should avoid contact with sick or dead birds at all costs. Residents are asked to report observations indicated above, or to call the local Animal Control Officer.
Pets should be kept a safe distance from wildlife. According to the statement, cats are highly susceptible to becoming infested with HPAI, and can run the risk of dying from the infection. Cat owners should keep their pets indoors to help prevent them from being exposed to potentially infected wildlife.
Wild mammals (the statement used foxes as an example), including those that scavenge on birds, are also at risk for infection.
“Humans are rarely infected with avian influenza viruses. Humans that have prolonged close contact with sick or dead birds infected with HPAI are the most at-risk for becoming infected,” the statement said.
For those who may have questions, residents are encouraged to visit the DPH’s Avian Influenza webpage, or call the Division of Epidemiology (which is available 24/7) at 617-983-6800.
