01/31/2025
See below for info on highly pathogenic avian influenza from NYSDEC. Influenza can occur In species other than that for which it was named (ie your dog can get the bird flu from an infected bird).
While there is no vaccine (canine or human) at this point against the H5N1 strain, the available vaccine for the H3N2 may offer some protection.
Please consider vaccination if your dog is at risk for contact with wild birds and should you find a dead bird, do not allow your pet to investigate it or to pick it up.
Avian Influenza - Winter 2025
Avian influenza (AI) is a viral disease in wild birds such as ducks and geese, gulls, raptors, and shorebirds that is commonly called “bird flu.” Some AI viruses are more severe than others and can also affect domestic gamebirds and poultry like chickens, turkeys, and other birds. Those that cause severe disease in poultry are called Highly Pathogenic AI (HPAI) viruses. These viruses can spread quickly in affected flocks.
In early 2022, HPAI was detected in wild birds across several eastern states. In February 2022, the first case of HPAI in New York was found in Suffolk County. At present, HPAI has been detected across the entire country including much of New York State. Some infected wild birds carry the virus without getting sick, which allowed the virus to continue to circulate in bird populations. Mammals, especially carnivores and scavengers that may eat infected animals have become ill and died from HPAI. Dairy cattle in some states have also had HPAI detected. The USDA tracks all detections across the country and offers guidance on how to Defend the Flock.
NYSDEC is working with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, U.S. Department of Agriculture, NYS Department of Health, and the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab to monitor HPAI in New York.
The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that HPAI detections in birds pose a low risk to the public. There have been a number of human cases in the United States, mostly associated with infections in dairy cattle or poultry, and one human mortality attributed to contact with birds. Hunters and people consuming wild game birds have a low risk of becoming infected, but you can protect yourself by only harvesting game that appears healthy. Cook any game meat to an internal temperature of 165° F, which kills the virus. If you handle live or dead wild birds, particularly waterfowl, gulls, and raptors, you should use personal protective equipment like masks, gloves, eye protection, and rubber boots (cleaned after use). Wash your hands thoroughly when finished.
If you see sick or dead wildlife, please report cases here:
NYSDEC Avian Influenza Reporting Form
The Wildlife Health Program is monitoring the occurrence and impact of HPAI across the state. Response will be guided by the number of dead birds, bird species, and new areas where we have not documented HPAI yet. Once HPAI is on the landscape there is currently no way to effectively manage this disease in wild birds, so in many cases there will be no response.
In cases where DEC field staff are not responding to collect samples or carcasses from the landscape, please limit contact with dead wildlife and keep children and pets away. If you deem removal from your property is necessary, you should wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids by using a shovel and wash their hands and clothing immediately after with soap and hot water. Carcasses should be triple bagged (garbage or contractor bags) and put in an outdoor trash receptacle.
