NEW JERSEY — New Jersey environmental officials are urging residents to report sick or dead wild birds as the state continues to monitor an active outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish & Wildlife division, in coordination with federal partners, is tracking the spread of the virus, commonly known as HPAI. Since the U.S. outbreak began in January 2022, avian influenza has affected wild birds in every state, according to officials.
Residents who encounter sick or dead birds — particularly groups of five or more — are asked to submit a report through the state’s online Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form.
Typical signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza in birds include diarrhea, nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing and incoordination. However, some birds may show no visible symptoms before death, officials said.
Although HPAI can infect humans, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that the ongoing outbreak is primarily an animal health issue and poses a low risk to the general public.
State officials said continued public reporting helps wildlife authorities monitor and respond to the outbreak effectively.
