(Pueblo, CO) - The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment confirmed a skunk tested positive for avian influenza in Pueblo County. The deceased skunk was found in the area of the Arkansas River and Pueblo Boulevard. Public health urges individuals to stay away from wildlife and protect pets and livestock.
“Avian influenza A viruses usually spread between birds, not people. Humans rarely get avian influenza, but when they do, it's usually through direct contact with infected birds or other infected animals,” stated Scott Cowan, Program Manager at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.
- Exposure to infected, sick, or dead animals is the main risk factor for getting avian influenza.
- Exposure to contaminated surfaces is another risk.
- Do not touch surfaces or materials contaminated with saliva, mucous, or animal feces from birds or other animals with confirmed or suspected avian influenza A virus infection.
“Never touch wild animals; plain and simple,” stated Cowan. “Pets can also become ill with avian influenza. You can protect your pets by watching them closely when they are outdoors or on walks, and making sure they stay away from wildlife or dead animals,” Cowan added.
The best way to prevent avian influenza is to avoid sources of exposure whenever possible. People should avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, and other wild animals and observe them only from a distance. If you must have direct/close contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other wild animals, wear recommended protective items like gloves, masks and eye protection.
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Wear gloves and use a shovel to dispose of dead birds or wildlife on private property. To avoid additional contamination, dead birds should be double bagged and placed in outdoor trash bins with other household trash.
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Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after contact with birds or animals. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
People with close or prolonged contact with infected birds or other infected animals or contaminated environments, including people with job- or recreational-related exposures, are at greater risk of getting sick with avian influenza A viruses.
If you have been in contact with a sick animal or believe you have been exposed to avian influenza A viruses and develop symptoms (eye redness, cough, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headache, shortness or difficulty breathing, fever of 100ºF or more) within 10 days of exposure contact your medical provider to discuss treatment options.
If you see large groups of dead birds or wildlife or have additional questions about avian influenza, you can call the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment at (719) 583-4307 (Option 9) or visit pueblohealth.org.
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