Bird flu, or Avian influenza, is spread naturally in wild birds, poultry, and other animal species through contact with respiratory droplets and bodily fluids. The current strain, which is known as H5N1, has been found in wild and domestic bird populations since 2022 throughout the country, including Ohio. Transmission of bird flu in wildlife can increase in the spring and fall with bird migration.
Bird Flu is Rare in Humans
People can get sick with bird flu when they encounter infected birds or animals, but this is very rare in the United States. As a general precaution, people should observe wildlife from a distance and avoid contact with sick or dead animals. Likewise, bird or backyard flock owners should prevent contact with wild birds. If you encounter sick or dead birds, it is important to report them immediately to officials.
How to Report a Sick or Dead Bird
For sick or dead raptors (such as bald eagles), multiple waterfowl (like geese or ducks), or any other large congregation of sick or dead birds, contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).
To report any other sick or dead wild bird, use the ODNR Wildlife Reporting Tool.
For sick or dead birds in backyard/hobby flocks, contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture at (614) 728-6220 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) or after hours at (888) 456-3405.
For sick or dead birds in commercial poultry flocks, contact the Ohio Poultry Association at (614) 882-6111.
What to Do If You Must Handle Sick or Dead Birds
Protect yourself by using personal protective equipment (PPE) to the greatest extent you can. Wear disposable gloves, a well-fitting face mask (preferably an N95), eye protection like goggles, coveralls, and rubber boots. You can buy these items online or at many retail, hardware, or feed stores.
Wash your hands thoroughly after touching birds or sick animals.
Try to avoid touching the bird’s body. Use a shovel or tool, if possible.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after contact with birds or animals or after handling materials that may have been in contact with them.
Change your clothing before contact with healthy birds and again after you’ve dealt with sick ones.
If local or state officials advise you to dispose of a dead wild bird, or if you must dispose of a dead wild bird before receiving guidance, wear disposable gloves to pick up the bird’s body. If you don’t have gloves, turn a plastic bag inside out and use it to pick up the bird’s body, or use a shovel. Double bag the body and throw it away in your regular trash.
What to Do if a Pet Has Been Exposed
If you believe a household pet has been exposed to bird flu, contact your local veterinarian. Your local health department and the Ohio Department of Health have no jurisdiction over any potentially infected animals.
Monitor Your Health
If you have been exposed to sick or dead birds, you should monitor your health for 10 days after your last exposure to the birds or their environment. Monitor yourself daily for symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, eye irritation, headaches, body aches, fatigue, or runny/stuffy nose.
If you develop any of these symptoms, contact CCPH at (513) 735-8400 and mention your exposure. Seek medical care and notify your provider of your potential exposure to bird flu.
