Bird Flu Alert in Manhattan: Health Officials Warn New Yorkers to Avoid Contact with Wildlife

The discovery of several cases of bird flu in Marcus Garvey Park in Manhattan has prompted health experts to issue a warning to New Yorkers. Geese, a peregrine falcon, a red-tailed hawk, and a chicken were found to have tested positive for the virus. Philip Meade, a postdoctoral fellow at Icahn School of Medicine, emphasized the need for people to limit their contact with wildlife and to avoid running up to Canada geese. He also advised New Yorkers to wash their hands after any contact with bird droppings.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus has been discovered in 12 flocks of wild birds across seven states, with the majority of cases in Texas. Additionally, the disease has been found in domestic poultry. Fortunately, there have been no reported cases of bird flu spreading to people at this time. However, it is crucial for New Yorkers to take necessary precautions and avoid wildlife in order to prevent the spread of bird flu.

In the past two years, only two people in the United States have been infected with the disease, also known as H5N1. The patients, from Texas and Colorado, had been in close contact with farm animals, including chickens. It is important for New Yorkers to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions when encountering wildlife or domesticated animals that may be infected with bird flu.

The CDC advises that people who have come into contact with infected birds or animals should immediately seek medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing. They should also practice good hygiene by washing their hands frequently and avoiding touching their mouths or noses after handling infected materials.

Overall, it is important for New Yorkers to stay informed about the risks associated with bird flu and take necessary precautions when interacting with wildlife or domesticated animals that may be infected with the disease.