Dozens of Dead Birds Found on East Patchogue Beach Believed to be Result of Avian Flu
Dozens of Dead Birds Found on Long Island Beach
A Long Island beachside community in New York’s Suffolk County is worried about dozens of dead birds that have washed up on the shore and been found in backyards, especially because officials believe the birds died from avian flu.
Discovery of Dead Birds
Patchogue Shores in East Patchogue has a private community beach. Earlier this week, Tim Jones, the vice president of their association, was walking along the beach with his family when he noticed many dead birds.
“I saw three seagulls, a cormorant, and I got a count of 11 ducks,” explained Jones.
NBC New York Investigation
NBC New York walked with him and saw a dead gull, a dead goose bobbing in the water and various other smaller birds strewn along the small stretch of sand.
Department of Environmental Conservation’s Response
Jones contacted the Department of Environmental Conservation. The DEC said it appeared to be avian flu because there have been cases in Suffolk County and Nassau County before. Officials from the department urged the community to close the beach to avoid any contact with the dead birds.
Risks Associated with Avian Flu
While bird-to-human transmission has been extremely low, the avian flu can be spread by direct contact through saliva, secretions, and feces. It can also be spread through viral particles in the air and consumption of raw food and milk.
Previous Outbreak at Local Farm
Earlier this month, bird flu was detected at Crescent Duck Farm in Aquebogue. The farm’s owner was forced to euthanize nearly 100,000 ducks.
Community Reaction
Residents of Patchogue Shores are staying away from the beach for now, hoping the issue will be resolved as the weather gets warmer.
“It’s very frightening, obviously, and I’m not quite sure what we can do about it at this point, other than to stay away,” said resident Janet Bondy. “But that becomes very difficult if you live down here.”
“It’s upsetting because people enjoy this. This is the one place where everybody who lives here enjoys, it’s something to have special, private, and it’s sad,” added Jones.
DEC Investigation and Testing
The DEC says the wind may have brought the influx of dead birds to shore. While they are assessing the reports, they may decide to collect some bird specimens for testing.
Conclusion
The discovery of dozens of dead birds on East Patchogue beach has raised concerns about the spread of avian flu in the area. While the risk of transmission to humans is low, it is essential for residents to take precautions to avoid contact with the dead birds and to follow the guidance of local health officials.
FAQs
* What is avian flu?
Avian flu is a type of influenza that affects birds and can be spread to humans through direct contact or through viral particles in the air and consumption of raw food and milk.
* How can avian flu be spread to humans?
Avian flu can be spread to humans through direct contact with infected birds, their saliva, secretions, and feces, or through viral particles in the air and consumption of raw food and milk.
* What is being done to address the situation?
The Department of Environmental Conservation is investigating the situation and may collect some bird specimens for testing. Residents are being urged to stay away from the beach to avoid contact with the dead birds.
* How can I protect myself from avian flu?
To protect yourself from avian flu, avoid direct contact with dead birds, wash your hands frequently, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food.
