ROCHESTER — H5N1, or “Bird Flu,” is a naturally occurring virus among wild aquatic birds — also known as wild waterfowl — throughout the world and can infect domestic poultry like chickens, ducks and turkeys.  

Infected birds may or may not become sick but can infect other fowl. The virus is shed through saliva, nasal secretions and feces. It is often present in natural water sources frequented by wild waterfowl. Domestic poultry may become infected with H5N1 when natural water sources are frequented and when in contact with wild waterfowl.

There was recently a H5N1 case involving livestock and one person. That individual’s only symptom was conjunctivitis, and they worked closely with the infected livestock. The threat to people is low, according to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

Protective actions include avoiding contact with suspected sick wild waterfowl and domestic poultry, keeping backyard domestic poultry away from wild waterfowl and natural water sources frequented by wild waterfowl, and implementing biosecurity plans. 

Avoid contact with dead birds, if found. To report dead wild waterfowl or domestic poultry, call 617-626-1795 or visit mass.gov/reportbirds. Other types of birds, such as songbirds and backyard birds, are rarely affected and should only be reported if there are 10 or more dead birds.