Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment Issues a Public Health Advisory to Heighten Awareness around Avian Influenza (H5N1)
County webpage provides current Cape-specific information to protect residents, pets and poultry amid nation-wide bird flu concerns
January 30, 2025 (Barnstable, MA) – The Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment is urging Cape Cod residents to take precautions as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or H5N1, continues to impact bird populations nationwide. While there have been no known human cases in Massachusetts, recent developments underscore the importance of public awareness and prevention.
H5N1 is a flu virus that primarily spreads among wild and domestic birds. Infected birds can shed the virus in their saliva, nasal secretions, and feces, contaminating the environment and increasing risks to other animals and humans through prolonged, unprotected contact. Since 2022, H5N1 has been detected in wild and domestic bird populations across Massachusetts, including Barnstable County. Recent cases in Plymouth and Essex counties emphasize the virus’s persistence in the region. Local health officials are closely monitoring the situation and working with state and federal partners to mitigate risks.
According to Lea Hamner, Contract Epidemiologist for Barnstable County, prevention is key. Hamner states, “It’s important that residents know to avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to an infected bird should monitor themselves closely for symptoms of avian bird flu for 10 days; if symptoms develop a doctor should be notified of the exposure and perform an evaluation for potential avian influenza.”
Bird flu infections in humans have been rare and resulted from prolonged, unprotected contact with infected birds. Symptoms of infection may include:
- Fever (Temperature of 100°F [37.8°C] or greater) or feeling feverish/chills*
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Difficulty breathing/Shortness of breath
- Conjunctivitis (eye tearing, redness, irritation, or discharge from eye)
- Headaches
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Diarrhea
Web Resources
The County has compiled information about Avian Bird Flu for the public, workers and employees, as well as anyone who might maintain a backyard bird flock. The web page can be accessed at www.capecod.gov/birdflu.
Precautions for Cape Cod Residents
- Beach Walkers: If you encounter a dead bird, do not touch it with bare hands. Notify your town’s animal control officer and use disposable gloves, masks, and eye protection if handling is unavoidable.
- Backyard Poultry Owners: Protect your flock by keeping them away from wild birds. Report sick or dead poultry immediately to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, Animal Health Division (617-626-1795).
- Pet Owners: Prevent pets from interacting with dead birds or other wildlife to avoid potential exposure.
Key Considerations
- Human-to-human transmission of H5N1 has not been reported.
- Properly handled and cooked poultry and eggs are safe to consume.
- Protect your pets: Keep cats indoors, keep dogs away from areas with migratory birds, and avoid feeding raw milk and raw meat pet food diets.
- In other states, H5N1 has transmitted between dairy cows with virus being found in raw milk. While no dairy cows have tested positive in Massachusetts, public health officials continue to advise against drinking raw milk. Pasteurization has been shown to kill H5N1 (and other pathogens) and is safe to drink.
- If you suspect exposure to H5N1, monitor your health for flu-like symptoms and contact your healthcare provider or the MA Division of Epidemiology (617-983-6800).
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT
Established under a Special Act of the Legislature in 1926, the Barnstable County Department of Health & Environment (BCDHE) provides regional public health and environmental health services throughout the 15 towns comprising Barnstable County. The Department manages several environmental, public health, and homeland security grants funded through state and federal resources. The Department’s primary mission is to protect public health and the environment and promote the physical and mental health and well-being of Barnstable County residents.
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF CAPE COD
Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offer a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more at www.capecod.gov
MEDIA CONTACT: Bethany Traverse, Health Communications Coordinator, bethany.traverse@capecod.gov
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