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A deceased waterfowl at Lake Julian Park has received a preliminary positive test result for Avian Influenza H5N1 or bird flu. Parks staff have identified a total of eight deceased waterfowl at the park; additional test results are pending although there is not a timeline for those results.
The park will remain open; park visitors should always avoid touching or feeding waterfowl and wash their hands regularly. Buncombe County Parks and Public Health Staff are working with state partners including representatives from the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, Division of Public Health, and Department of Agriculture on cleaning protocols at the park, monitoring and testing in the event of human exposure, and protocols for handling sick or deceased animals.
"It's not common for the virus to transmit from animals to humans, but it is possible,” said Buncombe County Public Health Director Dr. Ellis Matheson. "Reduce your risk of infection by staying away from sick or dead birds, and the same goes for your pets, as well."
The CDC reports there have been 67 confirmed total reported human cases of H5N1 Bird Flu in the US since 2024, including one associated death.
According to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, symptoms of bird flu include fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, and red, irritated eyes, a signature sign of bird flu.
For more information, go to https://flu.ncdhhs.gov/HPAI/.
Bird Flu General Guidance
January and February mark the start of the wild bird migratory season in North Carolina, a time when the risk for the spread of bird flu is increased. While the danger to the general public remains low, take steps to protect your backyard birds, pets, and yourself from this disease.
What is the bird flu?
The bird flu, also known as avian influenza or H5N1, is caused by the avian influenza A virus. Most cases are mild and are related to direct exposure to infected animals, like on farms. People rarely get bird flu, but when they do, it occurs when the virus gets into a person's eyes, nose, mouth, or lungs.
What should the general public do?
Avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals. If you must have contact, wear personal protective equipment including gloves and mask. Don't touch surfaces with saliva, mucus, or feces from wild or domesticated birds or other animals. Do not touch or consume raw milk or milk products. Wash your hands frequently and stay up to date with your seasonal flu vaccine. Buncombe County Health and Human Services provides flu vaccines.
Other people who may come in contact with birds, such as backyard flock owners, pet owners, or hunters, should also take precautions.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE GENERAL GUIDANCE TO HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF BIRD FLU.