Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes spread to humans and other animals. While rare in people, certain strains can pose serious health risks. Understanding how bird flu spreads, its symptoms, and what to do if you suspect an infection is essential for protecting yourself and your family.
What is Bird Flu?
Bird flu refers to several strains of influenza viruses that naturally circulate among birds. Some strains cause mild illness, while others, like H5N1, can lead to severe disease in birds and, in rare cases, humans.
How Does Bird Flu Spread to Humans?
Most people contract bird flu through direct or indirect contact with infected birds, including:
- Handling sick or dead birds
- Exposure to contaminated surfaces (such as cages, water, and soil)
- Consuming undercooked poultry or eggs
- Visiting live poultry markets or farms with outbreaks
Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare but has occurred in isolated cases.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Humans
Bird flu symptoms often mimic those of seasonal influenza but can become more severe. Common symptoms include:
- Fever and chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Shortness of breath
- Eye infections (conjunctivitis)
- Severe respiratory issues, such as pneumonia
If you experience flu-like symptoms after exposure to birds or poultry farms, seek medical attention immediately.
Is Bird Flu Spreading in North Carolina?
As of early 2025, North Carolina has been significantly impacted by avian influenza. Over 3.3 million birds have been affected, primarily from a commercial egg-laying operation in Hyde County. The state ranks third in the U.S. for the number of bird flu cases, following Ohio and Missouri. Local health and agricultural officials are actively monitoring the situation. Stay updated by checking the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) or the CDC Bird Flu Updates.
Bird Flu Treatment & Prevention
There is no specific cure for bird flu, but antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can reduce symptoms and improve outcomes if taken early.
How to Protect Yourself from Bird Flu in North Carolina
- Avoid direct contact with wild birds – Do not touch sick or dead birds, and report
unusual bird deaths to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. - Practice good hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly after handling poultry or eggs.
- Cook poultry and eggs properly – Ensure all poultry reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Get a flu shot – While it won’t prevent bird flu, it can reduce the risk of co-infection with seasonal flu.
What to do if you Suspect Bird Flu in North Carolina
If you notice sick or dead birds in your community, report them to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission via the NC Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., or email HWI@ncwildlife.org. If you or someone you know develops severe flu symptoms after bird exposure, contact your doctor or visit a North Carolina urgent care clinic immediately. Bird flu outbreaks can change rapidly. Keep up with the latest information from trusted sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to protect yourself and your family.