ORLANDO, Fla. — The city of Orlando was notified by residents of the deaths of several wild birds at Lake Davis Park.
Residents said a necropsy was performed and a bird tested positive for avian influenza. According to a statement by the city released Friday, it has not independently confirmed that information.
However, officials said cases of avian influenza have been reported throughout the state and urged residents not to touch or handle any birds that appear unwell or are dead.
Residents or visitors who find a dead animal should report it immediately to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Earlier this month, city officials confirmed that 21 birds, including 19 swans, near Lake Eola downtown died from avian influenza.
Lake Davis is located east of Summerlin Avenue, between Greenwood Street to the north and Florida Street to the south.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, avian influenza can be transmitted to humans in rare cases. It recommends that people and pets avoid direct contact with birds and watch them from a distance. They also should avoid excrement from any birds and when entering a home, people should remove their shoes and clean them off if contamination is suspected.