By Hank Russell
With reports of deceased birds being found across the county, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recommends the following guidance if you encounter this situation on your property.
This past weekend, it was reported that more than a dozen dead birds washed up on the waters of East Patchogue. Officials believe they died from avian flu.
According to the Mayo Clinic, avian flu — also known as bird flu — is caused by influenza Type A virus infections in birds. Depending on the strain, it can result in death. Although very rare, humans might be susceptible to avian flu. Common symptoms include fever, breathing problems, pink eye (also known as conjunctivitis), upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea.
In cases where DEC field staff cannot collect samples or carcasses from the landscape, please limit direct contact with dead wildlife and keep children and pets away. To dispose of a dead bird safely, DEC provides the following guidelines:
- Wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection, like safety glasses or goggles.
- Avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids by using a shovel or a garbage bag to pick up the bird.
- Carcasses should be triple-bagged (garbage or contractor bags) and placed in an outdoor trash receptacle.
- Remove and throw away your gloves. Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after removing gloves.
- Change your clothes and wash them after disposing of the bird.
- If you use a shovel, clean it with hot, soapy water and disinfect it with diluted bleach (1/3 cup of bleach added to a gallon of water).
For additional information or to make a report, call the DEC at 844-332-3267.