Health officials in Virginia are tracking an uptick in bird flu cases.
A chicken flock in Accomack County tested positive for bird flu earlier this month, and some animals at the Richmond Zoo also got the disease.
Experts say most people are still at a low risk for bird flu and don’t need to take precautions right now.
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“So far, we have not seen sustained human-to-human transmission of H5N1 influenza and that really would be the bright red flag that would make you concerned about the beginning of a pandemic,” said Dr. Patrick Jackson, an infectious diseases expert at UVA Health.
People who work with animals, have a backyard chicken flock, or hunt, should wear masks, gloves and eye protection when dealing with dead or sick animals.
If you come across a sick or dead bird, report it to the USDA by calling 866-536-7593, or contacting the state veterinarian’s office at 804.692.0604 or vastatevet@vdacs.virginia.gov .
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