Dead vultures in Maryland test presumptively positive for bird flu

CHARLES COUNTY, Md. (7News) — The Charles County Department of Health said several dead vultures found in the La Plata, Md., area have tested presumptively positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Preliminary results came back Friday, Sept. 12, and health officials said they are waiting for confirmatory results, but stress the risk to the public is low. Residents are urged not to handle sick or dead birds.

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Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious airborne virus that spreads quickly among birds through secretions and droppings. It can spread between wild birds and domestic poultry through direct contact, contaminated equipment, or the clothing and shoes of caretakers.

The virus poses the greatest threat to poultry flocks such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys, as well as certain wild birds, including vultures, geese, and raptors.

Health officials provided guidance for flock owners: commercial poultry producers should alert their company immediately if they observe signs of illness. Backyard flock owners noticing bird flu symptoms should contact the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health team at md.birdflu@maryland.gov, animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov, or call 410-841-5810.

Sick or dead birds must not be moved off-site for testing. Additionally, backyard flock owners are required to register their flocks with the state to support the safety of Maryland’s poultry industry.

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The Maryland Department of Natural Resources urges waterfowl hunters to use caution when handling game, wash their hands and clothing afterward, and keep dedicated tools separate from domestic poultry.

Anyone who encounters a dead wild bird should call the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at 1-877-463-6497, which is coordinating collection and disposal efforts. More information on bird flu can be found here.