Lubbock Citizens Warned To Avoid Contact With Sick or Dead Birds

Have you seen a dead bird on the ground lately? Possibly in your yard or sidewalk? Lubbock officials are now warning citizens not to touch dead or sick birds due to bird flu which is circulating across the United States.

Don't Touch Dead or Sick Birds in Lubbock

According to a press release on Tuesday, Lubbock Public Health is urging all Lubbock residents to avoid handling or touching sick or dead birds that they may come across. Lubbock officials say there has been detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza also known as Bird Flu or H5N1 in wild birds in Lubbock and the surrounding areas.

What Should You Do If You Find a Dead Bird?

Lubbock officials put out this list of things you should do and shouldn't do.

• Do not touch wild birds.
  Avoid touching, handling, or interacting with sick or dead wild birds—including geese, grackles, hawks, or other wildlife.
• Report dead birds.
  If you find a sick or dead bird, contact Lubbock Animal Services, 806-775-2057.
• Protect yourself.
  If you must handle a bird (for example, for disposal), wear gloves and a mask.  Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward.
• Seek medical attention.
  If you develop flu-like symptoms after potential exposure, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Close contact with infected birds can lead to transmission of the virus to humans.