Reporting Suspected Cases
- To date, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 (Asian strain) has not been detected in humans, poultry, or wild birds in the western hemisphere.
- The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have stepped up surveillance for Avian Influenza in domestic poultry and wild birds.
- Report die-offs or unusual sickness in domestic poultry or wild birds so incidents may be investigated. Early detection can make a difference.
- Domestic Birds
- Report unusual sickness or die-offs in domestic poultry to Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Animal Industry at 850-410-0900, or after hours 1-800-342-5869 or email rad@freshfromflorida.com, or to the USDA Area Office 352-333-3120, or email vsfl@usda.gov.
- Wild Birds
- Report dead wild birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at http://legacy.myfwc.com/bird/default.asp.
- Domestic Birds
- Precautionary measures for bird handlers include:
- Work in well ventilated areas when working indoors.
- Work upwind of birds to decrease risk of inhaling aerosols such as dust, feathers or dander, when working outdoors.
- When possible, wear rubber or latex gloves that are disposable or can be disinfected.
- When possible, wear protective eye wear or face shield while handling birds.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Disinfect work surfaces and equipment.
- Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling birds.
- Hunters and others handling birds should follow routine precautions listed below when handling wild birds:
- Precautions should include hand washing, proper food preparation and clean up, and thorough cooking.
- Do not handle or eat sick game.
- Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning game, and thoroughly wash hands and all knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game.
- Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling animals.
- All game should be cooked thoroughly (well done or 160 F).
- Precautions should include hand washing, proper food preparation and clean up, and thorough cooking.
- Avian influenza viruses are destroyed by heat and not transmitted through cooked food. All fowl should be cooked thoroughly (well done or 160 F).
- Proper hand washing is one of the most effective methods of preventing the spread of the flu.
Last Updated: March 11, 2011
