MONROE, Wash. — The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) confirmed that avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is present in birds at Lake Tye Park in Monroe, Wash.
The City of Monroe announced last week they were tracking the suspected avian flu outbreak at Lake Tye Park.
Local and state agencies issued guidance for handling potential cases at the park. Residents who find a sick, injured, or dead bird should first notify state wildlife officials. If the bird is located within a city park, residents should then contact the Monroe Parks Department at 360-863-4559.
Government health and municipal agencies warned the public to avoid physical contact with affected animals. “Do not handle wild birds that are obviously sick or found dead,” officials with the City of Monroe and the WDFW advised.
Officials added: “If you come in contact with a sick bird, please take special precautions to ensure that shoes and clothes are cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of diseases.”
The Washington State Department of Health has additional information on avian influenza on its website.