In addition to the concern at the spread of the seasonal flu, there is growing concern about an avian flu, also known as bird flu spreading amongst wildlife in the New York City area, and around the world.
Reminiscent of the initial COVID outbreak, fear escalated this week, when live bird markets in New York City and surrounding counties were shut down with the discovery of the H5N1 bird flu virus.
Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) is taking proactive steps to monitor and mitigate the potential risk to public health. Researchers at HMH’s Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) have developed the capacity to rapidly sequence and test for the virus, including emerging mutations. This advanced testing is being deployed within HMH hospitals, when patients present with influenza symptoms and testing finds it is not one of the common seasonal flu strains. This sequencing allows for greater understanding and tracking of the avian flu and its ongoing mutations.
CDI was previously instrumental during the COVID-19 pandemic, developing its own test for COVID with results within two hours enabling our hospitals to better triage and help severely ill patients, when most of the country was sending tests to Washington, D.C. and waiting days for confirmation of the virus.
Bird flu is widespread in wild birds around the world, and has caused outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows in the United States. There have been some instances of farmers with direct contact with infected animals becoming infected, and at least one person has died from bird flu in the U.S.
Bird Flu Pandemic Fears
So, should you be worried about bird flu? Change your diet to cut out poultry and eggs? Even dairy and beef?
The good news, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to humans is low. It’s very rare for people to catch bird flu, and when they do, it’s usually from close contact with infected birds, not from eating properly cooked poultry or eggs.
Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
- Handle raw poultry and eggs with care: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw poultry or eggs. Clean cutting boards, countertops, and utensils with hot, soapy water.
- Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly: Make sure poultry is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Eggs should be cooked until both the yolk and white are firm. Avoid eating runny eggs or raw cookie dough containing raw eggs.
- Avoid contact with wild birds: Don’t touch or feed wild birds, especially if they appear sick or dead. Keep pets away from wild birds as well. If you see a sick or dead bird, report it to your local health department or wildlife agency.
- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest information about bird flu in your area by checking the websites of the CDC, USDA, and your state’s health department.
Hackensack Meridian Health experts are available to discuss bird flu, risks and testing for the virus.
Media Contacts:
Jessica Nussman
551-237-0984
