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Published on January 23, 2025
Philadelphia Reports First Suspected Case of Avian Influenza in Snow Goose Near Carroll ParkSource: Wikipedia/Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

West Philadelphia's feathered inhabitants have been joined by an unwelcome visitor—avian influenza, also known as bird flu. According to a recent announcement from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, a sick snow goose found near Carroll Park on January 11 was preliminarily tested positive for the virus. 

In the same statement, Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, Philadelphia's Health Commissioner, reminded residents, "The threat to Philadelphians from H5N1 remains low, but we are issuing this alert out of an abundance of caution." Locals are urged to keep distance from wild birds and to report any sick or dead ones to the Pennsylvania Game Commission through a designated hotline, email, or a Wildlife Health Survey tool found online. Near Carroll Park, a poorly placed reminder stated to avoid direct contact with sick geese, which could potentially spread the virus, as mentioned by the city's official website.

While the risk to humans is generally low, precautions are intensifying as the pathogen has nested within the region. Echoing these concerns, the Health Department recommends avoiding waterfowl, common carriers of bird flu. Residents who have spotted sick birds or those with backyard chickens exhibiting symptoms are advised to reach out for assistance. The PA Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services is on standby, ready to respond to queries and concerns at all hours of the day.

The prevalence of avian influenza has cast a grim shadow not just over Philadelphia but across the nation. More than 60 people have tested positive for H5N1 following direct exposure to affected farms, with one reported fatality—facts standing as stark proof of the disease's reach, conveyed by the Health Department. With around 1,000 dairy herds and several locations in the Lehigh Valley already ensnared by the flu, vigilance continues to be the watchword. Seeking assistance after coming into contact with snow geese, residents should avoid waiting and directly contact the Division of Disease Control.

To stay abreast of the latest updates on the avian influenza situation in Philadelphia, the public can visit the Health Department's blog post which is maintained with up-to-date information, as per the city's official announcement.