Hudson Officials Respond to Possible Bird Flu Cases at Bruces Pond
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HUDSON, MA — The Hudson Fire Department, Animal Control, and the Health Department, under the direction of Lauren Antonelli, M.A., responded to a situation this morning at Bruces Pond off Apsley Street, where a swan and a Canadian goose were found deceased.
In light of an uptick in bird flu cases, officials acted out of an abundance of caution to recover the birds to safeguard public health and prevent potential transmission to other wildlife or domestic animals.
Antonelli, Director of the Hudson Health Department, reassures residents that the risk to humans remains minimal:
“While bird flu primarily affects birds, the risk to humans is extremely low. However, it’s important to take preventive measures and remain cautious to protect both people and animals.”
Residents are advised not to touch any dead birds if they come across them. Instead, sightings of dead birds should be reported using the links below, and the Animal Control Officer can be notified to safely pick them up.
The Hudson Health Department recommends the following additional precautions:
Observe wildlife from a safe distance: Avoid approaching birds or other wildlife, even if they appear injured or sick.
Practice good hygiene: Sanitize your hands and shoes if you’ve been near wildlife.
Report concerns: Use the provided links below to report deceased wild birds or domestic poultry, or contact the Hudson Board of Health at (978) 562-2020.
Additional Resources and Reporting Links:
State’s Press Release on the Topic: https://www.mass.gov/news/state-officials-suspect-hpai-outbreak-impacting-geese-and-other-wildlife
DPH Page on Avian Flu: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/avian-flu
MDAR Page on Avian Flu, Including USDA Info: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/avian-influenza
Reporting Form for Dead Wild Birds: https://www.mass.gov/forms/report-observations-of-dead-wild-birds
Reporting Form for Domestic Poultry: https://www.mass.gov/forms/poultry-disease-reporting-form
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed,” Antonelli added. “Residents should feel confident that the necessary measures are being taken to address this issue while keeping the community informed.”