Have you been seeing a strange amount of dead birds around recently? It’s not just a coincidence. The H5N1 avian influenza, or bird flu, has been sighted all over New Jersey.
Although there are many different ways the sickness could have reached the region, many believe the snow geese carried the virus here.
There have been sightings of dead birds all over, including places such as the Round Valley Reservoir located in Clinton Township. These birds have been tested and have confirmed cases of the H5N1 avian flu.
Unfortunately, it is not only birds that have been affected. The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDH) has announced that a group of cats in Hunterdon County have been affected by the virus and have been humanely euthanized.
According to owners, the cats were allowed to freely roam outside and often caught birds. It is possible that the cats contracted the virus from this.
New Jersey Health Commissioner and medical doctor Kaitlan Baston said, “While the risk of H5 infection to the general population remains low at this time, it is important for people to learn more about the situation and take steps to avoid potential infection through exposure to animals, including feral cats.”
Livestock has also been at risk of the H5N1. Large poultry farms have had to euthanize chickens to ensure that the issue does not spread to their populations.
This issue is also causing prices to increase in the grocery stores, causing anger from many consumers. When demand remains steady for a product that isn’t easily substituted and supply diminishes, prices tend to rise.
Senior Shelia Bazelais is an employee of Bagelsmith Food Store Deli & Pizzeria. “All sandwiches containing egg products increased by a dollar and some customers were upset that their everyday sandwich is now a dollar more,” said Bazelais.
There have been cases in the United States where cattle have been affected, as the virus has been detected in the milk.
Humans are not at risk through milk consumption because of the precautions that are put in place to prevent it. For this reason, the New Jersey Departments of Health and Agriculture caution against the consumption of raw milk and raw milk products by humans and pets.
There have not been any cases of the H5N1 avian flu in New Jersey in humans. Although humans could contract it through inhalation, direct contact, contaminated surfaces or consumption of raw or under cooked poultry or eggs.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans can range from mild to severe fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and in some cases, difficulty breathing or eye redness.