PHOENIX — Geese at Scottsdale’s Chaparral Park have tested positive for bird flu, adding to a growing list of cases in metro Phoenix, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) confirmed Friday.
Recent testing of multiple domestic and Canadian geese found dead at the park revealed the presence of avian influenza. Officials believe it is the same strain detected in other areas of the Valley.
Where Else Has Bird Flu Been Detected?
The latest case follows a series of bird flu detections in the region:
- Nov. 15: Bird flu was confirmed at a commercial poultry farm in Pinal County, leading to Arizona’s first human cases when two workers tested positive.
- Nov. 21: A backyard flock in Maricopa County tested positive.
- Dec. 11: Wildlife World Zoo reported an outbreak that led to the deaths of five animals, including a cheetah and an Indian goose.
Additional cases have been reported in a red-tailed hawk and other animals undergoing testing, according to Anne Justice-Allen, state wildlife veterinarian for AZGFD.
Risk to Humans
The risk of human-to-human transmission of bird flu remains low. Most human infections occur after direct exposure to sick or dead animals or contaminated environments. Symptoms range from mild respiratory issues to severe complications such as pneumonia or organ failure.
What to Do
AZGFD encourages the public to report any suspected bird flu cases in poultry by calling the Sick Bird Hotline at 866-536-7593.
While the outbreak has caused concern among wildlife and poultry professionals, officials emphasize that the risk to the general public remains minimal.