After meeting with officials from the County Health Department, about the ongoing Avian Influenza (H5N1), “Bird Flu” public health challenge, Commissioner Shaun C. Van Doren wanted to alert the public to the County Health Department’s ongoing preparedness plans.
Deputy Director Van Doren shared, “H5N1 Avian Influenza, also known as “Bird Flu”, continues to be a concern, with outbreaks in wild birds and poultry across the United States. While the current public health risk remains low, we are closely monitoring the situation and working with federal and state agencies to ensure the safety of our residents.”
The H5N1 Bird Flu has been found in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows with several recent human cases among U.S. dairy and poultry workers. While the current public health risk is low, the CDC is watching the situation carefully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposures.
Currently there is no reported spread of the virus from person to person. While the risk to the public is low, there are currently 66 confirmed human cases in the United States, and 1 reported death. There are no known human cases in New Jersey.
As of January 9th, there have been no reported cases of H5N1 detected in New Jersey domestic cattle or poultry. Additionally, since January 10th, Avian Influenza is suspected to have caused the deaths of multiple wild birds, predominantly snow geese, across the state. Preliminary in-state testing has reported presumptive positive results for H5N1 Avian Influenza from 7 snow geese, 2 Canada geese, and 2 hawks recovered from Warren, Middlesex, Morris, and Sussex Counties.
Mr. Van Doren emphasized the importance of taking precautions, especially for those who work with poultry, dairy cows, or wildlife, “Individuals in these high-risk groups should take extra-precautions, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE) and avoiding contact with all wild birds, especially sick or dead birds,” he advised. “It is crucial to report any sick or dead birds to the appropriate authorities to help track and manage the spread of the virus.”
The Hunterdon County Health Department is actively tracking the latest information and providing updates to the public. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow the guidelines provided by health officials to minimize the risk of exposure.
For more information from the Hunterdon County Health Department on Avian Influenza and how to protect yourself, please click here or call the Health Department directly at: (908) 788-1351.
To report sick or dead poultry or livestock contact: New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health 609-671-6400 or state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov
Report sick or dead wild birds to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife hotline at 1-877-WARNDEP.
For more information on the current situation nationally, please visit the CDC website at:
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