Houston health officials are urging residents to keep a close eye on birds and basic hygiene as Easter egg hunts and outdoor get-togethers ramp up this weekend.
In an April 3 advisory, the Houston Health Department reminded families to steer clear of sick or dead birds, handle poultry and eggs carefully, wash hands after being outside, and watch for possible flu symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat or eye irritation.
What Houston Health Department Said
In a post on X, the Houston Health Department urged Houstonians to “be the early bird” and report unusual bird deaths using a QR code that connects residents with a wildlife biologist. The post, published April 3, also advises anyone who develops fever, cough, sore throat or eye irritation after possible exposure to contact a primary care doctor.
How To Keep Kids, Pets And Backyard Flocks Safe
The CDC says the key ways to cut risk are straightforward: avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead birds, wash hands after outdoor activities, and cook poultry and eggs thoroughly. The agency also recommends that people who work with birds or livestock use personal protective equipment and seek medical evaluation if they develop symptoms.
Where To Report Sick Or Dead Birds
Residents are asked to report dead poultry to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242, and to contact their local Texas Parks & Wildlife Department wildlife biologist about sick wild birds. Local agencies have also advised temporarily taking down bird feeders and bird baths in some areas to limit bird crowding where the virus can spread more easily.
Why Officials Are Watching
The CDC and federal partners report that A(H5) avian influenza continues to circulate in wild birds and has caused outbreaks in poultry and dairy herds, although human infections remain rare. Local findings of H5 signals in Houston-area wastewater and a recent bird detection in Texas City are keeping surveillance efforts active and helping drive these pre-holiday reminders, according to FOX 26 Houston.
Houston officials say simple moves like not touching sick or dead birds, keeping pets away from them, washing hands after outdoor play, and cooking eggs and poultry thoroughly will help lower risk as families gather this weekend. For more information, see the Houston Health Department and the state’s resources at the Texas Department of State Health Services.
