H5N1/Bird Flu

H5N1/Bird Flu

What is H5N1/Bird Flu?

H5N1 (called “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza” or “bird flu”) is a disease caused by influenza A viruses. Wild birds, particularly waterfowl, can carry and spread these viruses but may show no signs of illness. However, H5N1 can cause severe disease and death in domestic poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese). H5N1 is causing illness in dairy cattle in multiple states as well, and cases of H5N1 have also been reported in wild birds, mammals, and other domestic companion animals, such as cats. People with close or prolonged contact with infected animals or contaminated environments may be at a higher risk of avian influenza infection.

Stay up-to-date on current cases in New Jersey.

Wildlife

If you encounter sick or dead wild birds report the finding to NJ Fish and Wildlife.

Poultry

If you encounter sick or dead poultry, contact the NJ Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400. Email state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov, or report case online.

Signs/ symptoms to look for in sick poultry:

  • Eating or drinking less than normal.
  • Having ruffled feathers.
  • Having runny diarrhea.
  • Having discharge from the eyes or nose or difficulty breathing.
  • Producing fewer eggs than normal.
  • Producing discolored, irregular, or misshapen eggs.
  • Dying unexpectedly of no apparent cause.

Resources

Related Documents

  1. Canada Goose Egg Addling (PDF)
  2. Do Not Touch Dead Birds (PDF)
  3. This Fair Season (PDF)
  4. Tips to Stay Healthy Around Animals Brochure (PDF)
  5. Update to Wildlife Ordinance No. 4042 (PDF)
  6. Why It Is Important Not to Feed Wildlife (PDF)