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SWANSEA (WBZNewsRadio) - Avian influenza, or more commonly known as "bird flu," has been detected in a sample of dead birds in the town of Swansea.
It all started back in March of this year, the community of Swansea began noticing a number of deceased birds in town, particularly within the swan population. Since then, 24 swans and one goose have died, prompting the town to test a small sample for bird flu. Six swans and a goose were sent to the lab, all seven animals tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Currently, however, there have been no reports of bird flu detected in humans or domestic livestock in Swansea or in the whole of Bristol County and the public health risk remains extremely low.
"The Town of Swansea will continue to work with our state and federal partners to monitor bird activity in the area and, if needed, conduct further testing," said Board of Selectmen Chairman Christopher R. Carreiro. "We would like to strongly reiterate that at this time we have had no reports of Avian flu detected in any residents or their domestic livestock, however, we urge community members to exercise extreme caution and not interact with any wild birds."
Those living in the area that have domestic flocks are urged to make sure biosecurity is being used to protect the birds. For example, birds can be exposed to HPAI through contaminated shoes, clothing or equipment, all which needs to be thoroughly washed before and after any close interaction.
If you find a deceased bird in Swansea, please call Animal Control Officer Lisa White at 508-679-6446. Any dead birds discovered in Massachusetts should be reported here.
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