Error processing SSI file
Charles H. Bronson, Commissioner    -    Dr. Thomas J. Holt, Director

Reporting Suspected Cases

  • To date, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 (Asian strain) has not been detected in humans, poultry, or wild birds in the western hemisphere.


  • The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have stepped up surveillance for Avian Influenza in domestic poultry and wild birds.


  • Report die-offs or unusual sickness in domestic poultry or wild birds so incidents may be investigated. Early detection can make a difference.
    • Domestic Birds
      • Report unusual sickness or die-offs in domestic poultry to Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Animal Industry at 850-410-0900, or after hours 1-800-342-5869 or email rad@doacs.state.fl.us, or to the USDA Area Office 352-333-3120, or email vsfl@usda.gov.
    • Wild Birds
      • Report dead wild birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at http://MyFWC.com/bird.
  • Precautionary measures for bird handlers include:
    • Work in well ventilated areas when working indoors.
    • Work upwind of birds to decrease risk of inhaling aerosols such as dust, feathers or dander, when working outdoors.
    • When possible, wear rubber or latex gloves that are disposable or can be disinfected.
    • When possible, wear protective eye wear or face shield while handling birds.
    • Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
    • Disinfect work surfaces and equipment.
    • Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling birds.
  • Hunters and others handling birds should follow routine precautions listed below when handling wild birds:
    • Precautions should include hand washing, proper food preparation and clean up, and thorough cooking.
      • Do not handle or eat sick game.
      • Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning game, and thoroughly wash hands and all knives, equipment and surfaces that come in contact with game.
      • Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling animals.
      • All game should be cooked thoroughly (well done or 160 F).
  • Avian influenza viruses are destroyed by heat and not transmitted through cooked food. All fowl should be cooked thoroughly (well done or 160 F).


  • Proper hand washing is one of the most effective methods of preventing the spread of the flu.

Back to Top

Last Updated: October 9, 2008