The Burlington County Health Department is alerting residents and farmers about the potential spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or bird flu, after a confirmed case at a local commercial bird farm. This case was reported by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and highlights the ongoing outbreak that began in 2022.
Officials emphasize that bird flu mainly affects animals and poses a low risk to humans. So far, the virus hasn’t shown evidence of spreading between people. However, those in close contact with infected birds should still be cautious, as they can contract the virus.
In light of this recent case, the Burlington County Health Department urges residents to stay vigilant. People should avoid contact with any sick or dead birds and report those cases to the appropriate authorities.
For poultry owners, here are some recommended precautions:
– Keep domestic birds indoors or in fully enclosed areas to prevent contact with wild birds.
– Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling birds.
– Recognize the signs of avian flu and report any suspected cases to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.
Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo noted the importance of reporting concerns regarding bird health. “This case shows how effective monitoring can be when farmers remain alert,” he said.
Statistics indicate that bird flu outbreaks have significantly affected poultry farms across the U.S., leading to the culling of millions of birds. According to the CDC, avian influenza has caused severe economic impact in the agriculture sector, with increases in prices for poultry products due to supply shortages.
Residents can find more information about avian flu on the County Health Department’s website. It’s important to remain informed, especially in these times when the threat of infectious diseases can impact both agriculture and public health.
For further guidance, residents can visit the New Jersey H5N1 webpage for additional resources. Keeping our communities informed and safe is crucial in these situations, so awareness and proactive measures are key.
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