The Town of Southampton Office of Emergency Management is continuing to monitor the ongoing concerns of potential Avian Influenza in wild birds. Although the CDC has indicated that recent detections in birds pose low risks to the public, residents are urged to use caution when dealing with wildlife; the virus is widespread in wild birds and mammals. The virus can, and will transmit to domestic animals, so pet owners are urged to keep their domestic animals supervised and away from any wild birds, dead wildlife, or bird/animal carcasses.  

If removal of carcasses is deemed necessary, the public is reminded to wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection.  Avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids by using a shovel and washing hands and clothing immediately after with soap and hot water. Carcasses should be triple bagged (garbage or contractor bags) and placed in an outdoor trash receptacle.

The NYS DEC has created an online reporting system for suspected Avian Influenza incidents. Access the form here: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/dee381c0ee8a4114a83dc1892fc0f7ed