Ohio has been leading the nation in bird flu cases, with recent confirmation of a backyard flock infestation in Stark County. According to Julianna Smith, an epidemiologist with the Stark County Health Department, 30 birds were affected by the virus. The case marks the first reported instance of bird flu in Northeast Ohio in over a year.
The outbreak has affected dozens of commercial flocks in Ohio and nearly 8.5 million birds across the state in the past 30 days. A human case was reported earlier this month in Mercer County, but there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Smith emphasized that prolonged close contact with infected animals or contaminated materials increases the risk of infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a low overall risk of bird flu for the general public, but individuals with close exposure to infected birds are at higher risk.
To mitigate the risk, health officials recommend wearing masks, gloves, and double-bagging dead birds. If you spot a sick or dead bird, contact your local health department for guidance on handling the situation.
Source: https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/oh-stark/northeast-ohio-flock-confirmed-for-bird-flu