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The H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu has been making headlines, but what does it mean for your health?
While the risk to the general public remains low, it's important to stay informed, especially for those who work with animals or in agriculture. Bird flu primarily spreads among birds such as poultry and wild birds, but rare human cases have been reported.
Prevention Tips:
- Practice good hand hygiene after touching birds and animals. Ex: At zoos and agricultural fairs.
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Do not touch sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals.
- Do not drink unpasteurized (raw) milk or eat raw milk products, like cheese.
- Ensure poultry products are fully cooked.
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Get the seasonal flu vaccine. People at increased risk for exposure to bird flu should receive a seasonal flu vaccine. Talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions.
Symptoms in People
Symptoms in people from bird flu can range from no symptoms to mild illness. These include eye redness and mild flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, and tiredness). Symptoms can also be more severe (like pneumonia) and require hospitalization. Less common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures.
See a healthcare provider if you become ill (even if symptoms are mild) after coming into contact with sick birds, poultry, cattle, or other animals. Let your healthcare provider know of your recent exposure and notify your local health department for additional guidance and recommendations.
Visit the Virginia Department of Health's bird flu response in Virginia webpage for the latest updates and FAQs.
Reporting Information
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Resources
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The year is in full swing, but it is never too late to focus on your health. Preventive screenings are an important step in catching health issues early and staying well. The Prince William Health District offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings for eligible women through the Every Woman’s Life Program. These screenings can help detect cancer early when treatment is most effective.
You may qualify for this program if you meet the following:
• Live in Virginia
• Uninsured
• 40-64 years of age (*18-39 years of age if symptomatic or high risk)
• Meet low-income guidelines (250% federal poverty level or below)
Make your health a priority today! Learn more about eligibility and how to schedule an appointment by calling us at 703-792-6300
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Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, so don't forget to set your clocks forward one hour!
This is also a great time to check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Working alarms save lives by giving you an early warning in case of fire or CO leaks.
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Take a few minutes to:
✅ Test all smoke and CO alarms in your home.
✅ Replace batteries if needed.
✅ Make sure alarms are less than 10 years old and if they are older, replace them.
A simple check now can help keep your family safe all year long.
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March 24 marks World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, observing the 1882 discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for TB. The day serves as a reminder for the ongoing efforts needed to end the spread of this disease.
TB primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. While it remains a global health concern, TB is preventable and curable. Early detection and consistent treatment are crucial to controlling the spread.
To learn about TB services offered at our Health District clinics visit our clinical services webpage.
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The PWC Community Services and Prevention team, along with community partners (including the Prince William Health District), invites the public to attend a resource fair focused on Problem Gambling and other wellness topics.
Attendees will access to gambling information, health screenings, and wellness resources. While supplies last, you can take a brief gambling screening for an ice cream treat.
Event Details:
📅 Tuesday, March 11, 2025
🕚 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
🏢 A.J. Ferlazzo Building (Atrium)
📍 1529 Donald Cutris Dr., Woodbridge, VA, 22191
For more information about Problem Gambling email Wendy Hunt at whunt@pwcgov.org
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