Mayor Mattie Parker, City of Fort Worth | City of Fort Worth website
Mayor Mattie Parker, City of Fort Worth | City of Fort Worth website
Published on January 28, 2025
Fort Worth Animal Care & Control has issued guidance for residents on how to safely handle sick or dead birds amid concerns about bird flu (HPAI). The disease primarily affects poultry, such as chickens and turkeys, but wild birds are also at risk.
Residents are advised not to take in or transport any sick birds themselves. Instead, they should report sightings of ill birds. This precaution is important for protecting both human and bird health.
Signs of illness in birds include sudden death, breathing difficulties, nasal discharge, decreased energy, and neurological symptoms like head bobbing. People who notice these signs should avoid touching the bird and report it to authorities.
The Centers for Disease Control states that the risk of contracting bird flu from handling infected birds is low. However, individuals who develop flu-like symptoms—such as fever, cough, or sore throat—within ten days should consult a doctor.
Fort Worth residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow safety guidelines.
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