Irvington Alerts
Public Health Notice: Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Precautions for Irvington Parks
Public Health Notice: Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Precautions for Irvington Parks
We have recently received reports of dead geese in Matthiessen and Scenic Hudson Park. Westchester County Department of Heath and NY State Department of Environmental Conservation representatives have been notified. Local health officials are advising residents to remain alert due to increased reports of avian influenza (bird flu) in wild and domestic birds in the region. While the risk to the general public remains low, it is important for everyone to take simple precautions to protect themselves, their families, and local wildlife.
What is Bird Flu?
Avian influenza is a virus that primarily affects birds, including wild birds and poultry. In rare cases, it can infect humans who have close contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated environments.
What Residents Should Do
Please report it to the Recreation and Parks Department. Do not touch or attempt to rescue wildlife yourself.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you have had direct contact with a sick or dead bird and develop flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing) within 10 days, contact your healthcare provider and inform them about the exposure.
Public health agencies are continuing to monitor the situation closely. Residents can help reduce the spread of disease by staying informed and following these precautions.
Thank you for helping keep our community safe.
Irvington Recreation and Parks Department
We have recently received reports of dead geese in Matthiessen and Scenic Hudson Park. Westchester County Department of Heath and NY State Department of Environmental Conservation representatives have been notified. Local health officials are advising residents to remain alert due to increased reports of avian influenza (bird flu) in wild and domestic birds in the region. While the risk to the general public remains low, it is important for everyone to take simple precautions to protect themselves, their families, and local wildlife.
What is Bird Flu?
Avian influenza is a virus that primarily affects birds, including wild birds and poultry. In rare cases, it can infect humans who have close contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated environments.
What Residents Should Do
- Avoid contact with wild birds, especially those that appear sick, injured, or dead.
- Do not handle dead birds with bare hands. If you must move one, use gloves, a shovel, or a plastic bag as a barrier.
- Keep pets away from wild birds and bird carcasses.
- Remove bird feeders or bird baths if you notice sick birds nearby.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after outdoor activities.
Please report it to the Recreation and Parks Department. Do not touch or attempt to rescue wildlife yourself.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you have had direct contact with a sick or dead bird and develop flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing) within 10 days, contact your healthcare provider and inform them about the exposure.
Public health agencies are continuing to monitor the situation closely. Residents can help reduce the spread of disease by staying informed and following these precautions.
Thank you for helping keep our community safe.
Irvington Recreation and Parks Department
(914) 591-7736