"(In regards to bird flu) for the general public, here are some things to keep in mind:
Backyard flocks:
If you have a backyard flock, you should take precautions to reduce the risk of spreading disease:
Keep your flock contained: isolate your birds from visitors and other birds.
Prevent germs from spreading by cleaning shoes, tools, and equipment.
Reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding sharing tools and equipment with neighbors.
Know the warning signs of infectious bird diseases among the flock, including fatigue, abnormal drop in egg production, swelling or discoloration of the eyelids/comb/wattles/shanks, stumbling or falling down, diarrhea, or unexplained death.
If one of your birds is sick or dies unexpectedly:
Avoid contact with the sick or dead bird. Assume other birds in the flock and their enclosures, droppings, feeders, and water sources are also infectious. (If you can’t avoid contact completely, take steps to protect yourself.)
If possible, isolate the bird from other animals and pets. (Don’t let your dog near it.)
Immediately report sick or dead birds to your state veterinarian or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (1-866-536-7593).
Bird Feeders
Bird feeders:Birds that gather at feeders (like cardinals, sparrows, and bluebirds) do not typically carry H5N1. The USDA does not recommend removing backyard bird feeders for H5N1 prevention unless you also care for poultry. The less contact between wild birds and poultry (by removing sources of food, water, and shelter), the better.
Raw Milk
Raw milk can potentially cause severe disease, but there have been no human cases yet. (Lots of cats have died this way, though.) It also comes with other typical risks, like bacteria.
Hunters
Hunters are at high risk for H5N1, especially if they don’t use PPE while handling dead birds. A Washington study showed that 2% (4/194) of hunting dogs tested positive for H5N1.
Domestic Animals
Domestic animals—cats and dogs—can get H5N1 if they contact (usually eat) a dead or sick bird or even its droppings. H5N1 can survive in bird droppings for up to 18 hours. Domestic animals can also get it from raw food, unpasturized milk, and their humans. It’s very deadly to cats (it doesn’t seem to be as much to dogs)."
- Your Local Epidemiologist H5N1 Update for February 28 2025
