Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

Avian (or bird) flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds and they carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, the H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans. There is no human immunity and no vaccine is available. However, bird flu is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds very sick and kill them. Infected birds shed the flu virus in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces, infecting other birds that come into contact with contaminated material.

Usually avian influenza refers to the influenza A virus found mainly in birds, but infections with these viruses can occur in humans also. Most human cases of avian influenza infection have resulted from close contact with infected poultry such as domesticated chicken, ducks and turkeys or surfaces contaminated with the virus. Infection can also occur from eating improperly prepared food products from infected poultry. 

Public health officials are concerned that the H5N1 virus could mutate into a virus that is capable of causing a potential human pandemic. Currently there is no human pandemic.

If you see or find dead domestic birds, contact the Kentucky Department of Agriculture at 502-564-3956 or the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at 1-866-536-7593 or 502-227-9661.

For more information on avian influenza, visit the Kentucky Department of Agriculture's Web site.

Wild Bird Monitoring

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources will be conducting random surveillance on wild birds, focusing on their cause of death and environmental testing.

If you see of find dead waterfowl or water birds, report your findings to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources at 1-800-858-1549, Ext. 352.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Dead birds should not be handled with bare hands. If you need to dispose of a dead bird, use gloves or a plastic bag turned inside out and over your hand to pick up the bird, double bag it, and either bury it or dispose of it in the trash.