Bird flu detected in dead birds found in north Austin

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — Austin Public Health said Wednesday afternoon that a local veterinary lab examined dead birds found in north Austin and detected bird flu, according to a press release. The agency said that those results were confirmed by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

APH said it wants the public to be cautious of contact with wild birds. While person-to-person spread of the virus hasn't been reported, there have been at least 60 human infections in the U.S. and one death from the virus.

"The best way to protect yourself and others from bird flu is to avoid sources of exposure," APH said. "Bird flu is a disease that typically affects wild birds, especially waterfowl, and domestic poultry."

It's also the reason for increased prices on dairy and eggs -- infected cattle and poultry across the U.S. have been culled to slow the virus' spread.

"People who work with infected wild birds, poultry, or dairy cows - or have direct contact during recreational exposure to these animals - are at greater risk for contracting bird flu if exposed to a sick or infected dead animal," APH said.

The University of Maryland's School of Public Health has said that cats can also be infected with the virus, with a fatality rate of around 67%.

APH recommends the following safety tips:

• Do not touch sick or dead animals or their droppings, and do not bring sick wild animals into your home.  
• Keep your pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces.  
• Avoid uncooked food products such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses. 
• If you experience illness after contact with sick or dead birds, please contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.