H5N1 (called “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza” or “bird flu”) is a disease caused by influenza A viruses. Wild birds, particularly waterfowl, can carry and spread these viruses but may show no signs of illness. H5N1 can cause severe disease and death in domestic poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese). H5N1 is causing illness in dairy cattle in multiple states as well, and cases of H5N1 have also been reported in wild birds, mammals, and other domestic companion animals, such as cats. People with close or prolonged contact with infected animals or contaminated environments may be at a higher risk of avian influenza infection. 

Quick Facts

• The risk to humans is low, but people who have direct contact with infected animals should take precautions to lower risk of infection, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Please report suspected sick or dead animals:
  • If you find sick or dead wild birds, do not handle them. Contact the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife hotline using this online form: NJDEP Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form. 
  • If you suspect sick or dead poultry, do not handle them. Contact the NJ Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400.
• CDC recommends that pet owners keep their pets away from wild birds and refrain from feeding their pets raw milk or raw pet food. 

Health Alert Network Messages

Date	Subject	Download Attachments
08/12/2025	Webinar by NJ Department of Agriculture for Backyard Poultry Owners- Avian Influenza and Other Health Concerns of Poultry
03/18/2025	Information for Veterinarians on H5N1 in Cats
02/10/2025	Influenza A(H5N1) Investigation Resources
01/22/2025	Protocols for Testing Cats or Dogs with Compatible Clinical Illness and Risk Factors for H5N1 in New Jersey
01/16/2025	Guidance for Animal Control Officers (ACOs) on H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
12/26/2024	Risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 to Cats from Exposure to Unpasteurized Contaminated Milk or Raw/Undercooked Meat
07/02/2024	Information on H5N1 Avian Influenza in Cats and Surveillance of Rabies Negative Cats for Avian Influenza
04/05/2024	CDC HAN: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus

To subscribe to these messages please email: EmergencyPreparedness@somersetcountynj.gov

More Resources

• H5NI - Bird Flu (NJDOH)
• H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation (CDC)
• Considerations for Veterinarians (CDC)
• Interim Guidance for Infection Control Within Healthcare Settings (CDC)