A dead waterfowl bird at Lake Julian Park has received a preliminary positive test result for Avian Influenza H5N1, or bird flu. Officials have confirmed eight more deaths in the park and are awaiting additional test results. Despite this, the park remains open to visitors.
However, authorities advise against touching or feeding waterfowl due to the risk of potential human exposure. To mitigate this risk, Buncombe County is working with state partners, including the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, to establish cleaning protocols.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 67 confirmed human cases of H5 Bird Flu in the US since 2024, resulting in one related death.
Source: https://wlos.com/newsletter-daily/dead-waterfowl-lake-julian-park-asheville-area-buncombe-county-receives-preliminarily-positive-bird-flu-test-result-avian-influenza-h5n1