Bird flu found in Skagit County

Jun. 15—The state Department of Health has confirmed a case of bird flu in Skagit County.

According to a news release from the county, a red-tailed hawk collected from the county on May 11 has tested positive for HPAI H5N1, a strain of avian influenza, or what is commonly known as bird flu.

The release states that it can be assumed that bird flu is actively circulating in Skagit County, similar to much of the state.

The virus can spread to domestic birds such as chickens, pheasants and turkeys through interactions with wild birds.

According to the county release, though bird flu infections among people are rare, human infections can happen when the virus gets into an individual's eyes, nose or mouth, or is inhaled.

The county advises that those who develop flu-like symptoms within 10 days of contact with a sick or dead wild bird should contact their health care provider and Skagit County Public Health at 360-416-1500.

It notes that chicken, eggs and other poultry and poultry products are safe to eat when properly handled and cooked.

State officials are asking people to report any sick or dead wild birds to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife and sick or dead domestic birds to the state Department of Agriculture at 1-800-606-3056.

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