Health officials have confirmed a case of bird flu in Mesa County after a hawk tested positive for the virus. While the public health risk remains low, authorities are monitoring potential exposure cases and advising residents to take precautions.
Virus Found in Hawk, But Details Remain Scarce
Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) announced that the bird flu virus was identified in a hawk. However, officials did not disclose when or where the bird was found or tested. The lack of specifics has raised questions, but health authorities stress that they are actively monitoring the situation.
No Human Cases Reported, But Monitoring Continues
MCPH has been in contact with four individuals who may have been exposed to the infected hawk. As of now, no human cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Mesa County.
Across Colorado, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported more than 40 outbreaks of bird flu. In Mesa County alone, a prior outbreak affected about 40 non-poultry birds and seven wild birds.
Bird Flu Cases in Neighboring Counties
The virus has not been contained to Mesa County alone. Other confirmed outbreaks in Western Colorado include:
- Delta County: 1 outbreak
- Montrose County: 2 outbreaks
Health experts continue to study the spread, but current data suggests that direct transmission to humans remains rare.
Health Officials Urge Precaution
While the public health risk is considered low, MCPH is urging residents to take precautions when dealing with wild birds. Officials recommend:
- Avoiding direct contact with wild birds, especially sick or dead ones.
- Minimizing exposure to poultry that appears unwell.
- Reporting unusual bird deaths to local authorities.
Mesa County health officials remain on high alert, closely monitoring any signs of additional outbreaks.
