Bird Flu Case in Missouri Raises Concerns for Public Health: How to Protect Your Home

Health officials in Missouri in late August identified a person sick with bird flu, marking the first U.S. case this year not connected to farm work.

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, has been spreading across farms in the country, but until now, human cases were only linked to people working with animals like cows or chickens. The Missouri patient, however, had no known contact with animals. This raises questions about how the virus spreads and how we can protect ourselves.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the general public’s risk of catching bird flu remains low, this latest case is a reminder to stay cautious. There have been a total of 14 human cases of bird flu in the U.S. this year. Most have been linked to animals on farms in states like Texas, Michigan, and Colorado. In Missouri, the virus has mainly affected poultry flocks, but in past years, wild birds have also been carriers of bird flu in the state.

The CDC’s current guidance is clear: avoid contact with sick or dead animals, whether they’re wild or domesticated. The agency also advises people to drink only pasteurized milk, which kills any viruses that may be present, making it safe to consume.

How to Protect Your Home from Bird Flu

One important way to stay safe from bird flu is by preventing wild birds from coming into contact with your home or property. Birds can carry the virus without showing any symptoms, meaning it’s hard to know if they’re infected just by looking at them.

If you’re worried about birds bringing bird flu to your home or yard, AviAway Bird Control offers solutions to keep birds from roosting on your property. Their bird control products are designed to keep birds away safely and humanely, reducing your risk of exposure to the virus. Some of their most popular products include:

• Bird Netting: This creates a physical barrier to prevent birds from entering areas like attics or barns. Learn more about bird netting.

• Bird Spikes: These can be placed on ledges or roofs to keep birds from landing. Find bird spikes here.

• Bird Wire: This is another simple but effective solution to stop birds from perching on surfaces around your home. Explore bird wire options.

These products help ensure that birds don’t build nests or gather on your property, which could reduce your chance of exposure to bird flu.

State Fairs and Bird Flu Risk

Experts are also warning people to be cautious at state fairs, where animals from different regions are brought together. While state fairs are fun, they can create opportunities for bird flu to spread. If you’re visiting a fair, avoid touching animals, especially birds, and always wash your hands after being around livestock or petting zoos.

Though the risk of bird flu remains low for most people, staying informed and taking simple precautions can help protect your health and home. To learn more about how you can keep birds away from your property, visit AviAway Bird Control.