As state officials investigate a suspected H5N1 bird flu outbreak with the discovery of more than 1,000 dead or dying geese across the state, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health reminds residents to avoid unprotected contact with sick or infected birds and other animals.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health the general risk of H5N1 bird flu to the public is low, with no human cases reported in the state at this time. Transmission to humans is rare, however, dogs and cats are susceptible to the disease and should avoid all contact with deceased birds.
Residents are asked to report sick and dead birds to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) by completing a reporting form available at: https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza.
NJDEP will only respond to events involving significant numbers of dead birds. Protective measures should be taken if disposing carcasses including eye cover, masking, gloves and gown. Carcasses should be double-bagged before placing in trash.
