Grand Island Residents Advised to Avoid Contact with Dead or Sick Birds

Grand Island, Neb. — The City of Grand Island is advising residents to avoid contact with sick or deceased birds following recent confirmations of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in migrating bird populations across Nebraska in recent months.

Nebraska Game and Parks has confirmed the presence of H5N1 in several migrating birds and continues to monitor mortality events throughout the state. The virus is currently circulating among wild bird populations, and residents may notice an increase in dead or abnormally behaving birds, particularly around local lakes and outdoor areas.

City officials want residents to know that the situation is being closely monitored. Parks crews will be responding and removing deceased birds from City-managed properties as necessary. Residents, on the other hand, are encouraged to stay clear of any dead or sick birds and avoid direct contact.

Individuals who encounter multiple dead birds or birds displaying unusual behavior are encouraged to report them through the “avian influenza” page at OutdoorNebraska.gov. Nebraska Game and Parks staff will evaluate reports and respond for testing as warranted.

To help reduce potential risk and prevent the spread of disease, residents and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to follow these best practices:
-Avoid direct contact with sick, dead or abnormally behaving wild birds
-Keep pets away from wild birds and areas where birds gather
-Wash hands thoroughly and disinfect shoes, equipment and gear after visiting areas where birds congregate
-If you become ill after exposure to wild birds, seek medical attention and inform your healthcare provider of the exposure
 
City staff responsible for handling and disposal of bird carcasses will follow appropriate safety protocols, including the use of gloves and protective equipment, double-bagging carcasses and disposing of them properly in designated landfill locations.

Avian influenza is widespread in wild and domestic birds worldwide and has been detected in all 50 states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, human infections remain rare but can occur through close contact with infected birds.

For more information about avian influenza and reporting sick or dead birds, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search “avian influenza.” Residents with questions about bird removal on City property may contact the Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department at (308) 385-0290.