HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Officials found a “presumptive” positive for H5N1 Avian Influenza, more commonly known as bird flu, in Harris County on Tuesday.
A snow goose in southeast Harris County was tested by the Department of State Health Services in Austin. No human cases of the virus have been reported in Harris County.
A confirmed case of bird flu was reported in Galveston County Tuesday morning.
RELATED: Galveston County resident reports bird acting erratically. Turns out, it had bird flu
Bird flu is a viral infection that usually spreads among birds but can sometimes infect humans and other animals. It can be transmitted to humans in two ways: direct exposure and via an intermediate host (another animal).
Officials said the risk to humans and domestic pets was low.
Bird flu symptoms
- Fever (100°F or higher) or chills
- Cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing
- Eye irritation or conjunctivitis
- Muscle aches, headaches, runny nose or diarrhea
- Note: Fever may not always be present
Symptoms in sick birds
Sick birds may show the following symptoms, according to Harris County Public Health:
- Lethargy
- Appear to lack balance
- Panting
- Have puffed feathers
Sick birds can be reported to HCPH Mosquito and Vector Control at 713-440-3036.