TEXAS — The first confirmed case of avian influenza in Galveston County has been reported by the Galveston County Health District.
The bird was reported by a resident of the area and collected by Texas City Animal Control on Dec. 5.
Two Texas City Animal Control Officers who responded to the case started experiencing symptoms soon after. However, rapid tests conducted by Galveston County Animal Resource Center returned negative results for avian flu.
Two more staff members from the Galveston County Animal Resource Center, possibly exposed, are under observation for symptoms. Currently, there are no reported symptoms.
The Galveston County Health District urges residents to be careful around sick or dead birds. Humans can contract avian influenza through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated areas, or intermediary animals carrying the virus.
Avian influenza symptoms in humans can involve fever (at least 100°F), chills, cough, sore throat, breathing problems, eye irritation (conjunctivitis), muscle aches, headaches, runny nose and/or diarrhea.
Report sick or dead birds to your local health department or wildlife agency for advice on handling and testing.