Bird flu has been detected in a backyard chicken flock in Redwood City, California. The San Mateo County Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures reported no human cases of the H5N1 virus from this particular outbreak.
However, officials are warning poultry owners to take precautions when handling birds or living near them. This includes washing hands thoroughly after contact and cleaning shoes to avoid spreading the disease.
The bird flu is primarily spread through contact with infected wild birds, particularly in waterfowl like ducks and geese. It can also be transmitted through touch, clothing, or contaminated surfaces.
Bird flu is highly contagious among birds and often fatal. Human infections are rare but possible when the virus enters the eyes, nose, mouth, or is inhaled. Symptoms in humans include red eyes, coughing, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, pneumonia, and seizures.
Residents in areas with backyard chickens should remain vigilant and follow proper hygiene practices to minimize the risk of transmission.
Source: https://www.ktvu.com/news/bird-flu-detected-backyard-redwood-city-chicken-flock