bird flu (H5N1) 

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or H5N1 "bird flu," is a global virus in wild birds. It is currently affecting U.S. poultry and dairy cows with several recent human cases in U.S. dairy and poultry workers.

While the public health risk remains low, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring HPAI. In Connecticut, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Department of Agriculture (DoAg), and Department of Public Health (DPH) monitor it.

General Recommendations

Protect Yourself from Bird Flu (H5N1):

The way you protect yourself from bird flu (H5N1) may vary based on your job and level of exposure:

  • High exposure*: Working closely with infected animals, including milking parlors, farms, zoos, or wild animal facilities.

  • Medium exposure*: Handling healthy animals on affected farms or near infected areas.

  • Low exposure*: No direct contact with animals or working in areas without confirmed H5N1 cases.

*Talk with your supervisor or your employer's health and safety committee to understand your exposure levels and how to protect yourself at work.

For more information: Information for Workers Exposed to H5N1 Bird Flu | Bird Flu | CDC

Reporting Dead Birds

If you find multiple dead wild birds (>5) (e.g., waterfowl and raptors) in one area or over several days, DEEP’s Wildlife Division encourages you to report it. Fill out this form and call DEEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011.

Report sick or dead domestic birds, especially poultry, to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DoAg), State Veterinarian at 860-713-2505.