The Burlington County Health Department has issued a reminder for residents and farmers to remain alert about the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, after a new case was confirmed at a commercial bird farm in the county.
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture reported that the infection was discovered following the farm owner’s observation of increased bird deaths. This is the most recent instance of bird flu in Burlington County since a nationwide outbreak began in 2022. Health officials emphasize that bird flu remains mainly an animal health concern, with low risk to humans. Human infection can occur through close and prolonged contact with infected animals, but there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Officials from the Burlington County Health Department are urging residents to avoid contact with dead or sick birds and to report such cases to authorities. Poultry owners are also advised to take extra precautions.
“The Burlington County Health Department works closely with state and local health partners to mitigate the risks to local residents and animals, and this latest case is an example of monitoring working exactly the way it is supposed to thanks to a diligent farmer’s reporting to Department of Agriculture officials,” said Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo, who serves as liaison to the county health department. “It’s also a reminder that bird flu is still present in New Jersey and that residents should stay informed and vigilant.”
Residents are encouraged to review avian flu information on the County Health Department website at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/2115/H5N1-Bird-Flu and follow all recommended safety measures. Information has also been shared with municipalities and posted in county parks.
Precautions recommended by health officials include avoiding contact with wild birds such as ducks and geese, staying away from sick or dead birds without protection, reporting dead or sick wild birds to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection at 1-877-WARNDEP (877-927-6337), and reporting domestic cases to the Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400 or by emailing state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov.
Poultry farmers and backyard flock owners should keep their birds indoors or fully enclosed, wash hands before and after handling birds, know signs of avian flu, and report suspected infections immediately. Guidance for safe disposal of dead birds can be found at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/DocumentCenter/View/21099/Safe-Disposal-of-Dead-Birds.
Pet owners are advised not to let dogs or cats roam freely outdoors near areas where geese gather. Any signs of illness in pets should be discussed with a veterinarian who can test for bird flu if necessary.
Further guidance is available on the New Jersey H5N1 page at https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/ah/livestockhealth/h5n1.shtml.
Burlington County covers 827 square miles, making it New Jersey’s largest county by area according to its official website. The county consists of 40 political subdivisions including three cities, six boroughs, and 31 townships. It operates under a Board of County Commissioners made up of five members serving at-large seats; Eve Cullinan is listed as county administrator on its official website.
The county also features Historic Smithville Park—a 312-acre site with forests, meadows, streams, and wetlands—and runs programs such as Outstanding Women of Burlington County awards through its official website. The Burlington County Library System aims to provide opportunities for learning and personal development for residents.
