Duarte officials warn residents to stay safe around wild birds

H5N1, also known as avian flu, is a contagious disease in birds that spreads via direct contact or contaminated surfaces like clothing, shoes, water, and feathers. Wild birds at the highest risk of infection include waterfowl (swans, geese, diving ducks), waterbirds (gulls, terns, cranes, herons, shorebirds), and birds that prey on these species such as eagles, hawks, falcons, and vultures. It is possible for wild birds to be infected and not show any signs of illness, but common neurological signs include swimming in circles, lack of coordination, and difficulty breathing.

In a press release, City of Duarte officials urge residents to avoid unprotected exposures and to always wash hands thoroughly afterward if wild birds must be handles. Protective equipment such as safety goggles, disposable gloves, or an N95 mask should be worn when in close contact with sick or dead wild birds or materials potentially contaminated with the bird flu virus. 

The current circulating strain of H5 bird flu is causing outbreaks in poultry, dairy cows, and other animals. The risk of H5 bird flu spreading to people in Los Angeles County remains low, but the Department of Public Health is closely monitoring the situation.

Stay safe by following these best practices:

• Observe wild birds from a distance. Avoid touching, feeding, or coming into contact with wild birds, even if they don’t look sick.
• Avoid contact with bird poop or with surfaces that may be contaminated with bird poop.
• Keep pets away from wild birds.
• Take down bird feeders and bird baths to reduce the spread of the virus and contamination of the environment with wild bird poop.
• If you encounter a sick or dead wild bird at a park, notify a park employee for help.
• If you encounter a sick or dead bird, contact Duarte Animal Control by calling (626) 357-7938

For more information, visit the LA County Department of Public Health website.

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