WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. — City staff members have discovered several ducks at Torcaso Park that have died, the city announced in a statement Thursday.
What You Need To Know
Ducks found dead in Winter Springs’ Torcaso Park tested positive for avian flu
That follows the deaths of dozens of birds at Lake Eola Park from avian flu
Officials urge anyone who sees a dead bird to inform the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
The risk of transmission of avian flu from birds to people is low, health department officials say
Staff members contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Seminole County Animal Services, and an investigation found the birds were positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
FWC and Animal Services provided guidance about how to dispose of the dead birds and sanitize the parts of the park affected.
The avian flu cases in Winter Springs follow the deaths and diagnoses of dozens of swans at Orlando’s Lake Eola.
Health department officials recommend that people take precautions to help prevent exposure, even though the risk of transmission of the avian flu to humans is low. Among those precautions are:
Avoid direct contact with sick or deceased birds
People who see dead birds should contact FWC
Avoid handling wildlife
Keep pets away from birds and affected areas
Do not put bird feeders or bird baths close to domestic poultry
Clean and disinfect bird feeders and birdbaths often, and wear rubber gloves while doing so. Then dispose of gloves and wash hands with soap and water or alcohol wipes.
Wash your hands frequently
Clean shoes before entering your home if you have been in areas where sick or diseased birds have been found
Anyone who comes into contact with birds and later has flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as a precaution, health department officials said.
According to the city of Winter Springs, FWC is recommending that officials allow avian flu to run its course and estimated it would take about a month for the infection to dissipate.