Can a person become infected with avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) virus by cleaning a bird feeder?
There is no evidence of HPAI H5N1 having caused disease in birds or people in the United States. At the present time, the risk of becoming infected with H5N1 virus from bird feeders is low. Generally, perching birds (Passeriformes) are the predominant type of birds at feeders. While there are documented cases of H5N1 causing death in some Passeriformes (e.g., house sparrow, Eurasian tree-sparrow, house finch) in both free-ranging and experimental settings, most of the wild birds that are traditionally associated with avian influenza viruses are waterfowl and shore birds. What should I do if I find a dead bird in my yard? Finding a dead bird in your yard does not mean it has avian influenza. Wild birds die for many different reasons, including other diseases, animal attacks and poisoning. If you find dead blue jays, crows, and songbirds, remember that the OhioDepartment of Health is continuing to test these birds to monitor for West Nile virus. These birds are not considered a primary r
