Authorities confirm four cases of avian influenza in Galveston. Officials urge avoiding contact with dead birds and protecting pets.
Health authorities in Galveston County confirmed several cases of avian influenza in local birds, triggering alerts among residents and pet owners. Although the risk to the general population is low and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission, experts urge the community to take precautions, especially when coming into contact with wild or dead birds.
The alert follows the death of at least 27 birds in various parts of the county. Six of these specimens were sent to the University of Texas Medical Branch for analysis. Of them, four have already tested positive for avian influenza, according to health authorities on December 3.
Cases in Dickinson Generate Concern
On November 24, the Galveston County Health District (GCHD) received a report of four dead ducks in Dickinson. The birds had been handled by people living near a body of water. Upon arrival, investigators found a fifth duck exhibiting neurological symptoms, such as erratic behavior and a lack of coordination.
These signs raised alarms about the possible presence of the H5N1 virus, a strain of avian influenza that has drawn worldwide concern in recent years due to its potential to cause severe disease in humans under certain conditions.
“This type of avian influenza has proven to be very dangerous when it infects humans,” explained Dr. Philip Keiser, a local health official. “Although the risk is low, we want people to be informed.”
Preventive Measures After Contact with Infected Birds
The GCHD reported that at least 10 people had direct contact with the infected birds. All were evaluated, and those with symptoms consistent with flu were tested, with negative results. However, as a preventive measure, eight of these individuals are taking Tamiflu, an antiviral used to treat and prevent influenza infections.
Cat Owners Should Stay Alert
Authorities also issued a special warning for those with outdoor cats who might hunt birds. According to the GCHD, these felines are at higher risk of exposure to Galveston’s avian influenza, as the virus can be transmitted to certain mammals that come into contact with sick birds.
The following symptoms in cats should be monitored:
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Unusual lethargy
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Loss of appetite
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Fever
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Difficulty breathing
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Nasal or ocular discharge
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Neurological issues such as tremors or disorientation
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Sudden death
Area veterinarians note that if a pet shows these signs after contact with birds, it should be evaluated immediately.
“If you can approach a wild animal and it does not back away, it is probably sick,” warned Dr. Keiser.
Avian Influenza in Galveston: Regional Impact and Recommendations
Although there are no human-to-human transmission cases so far, experts from the GCHD and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge vigilance. Since 2024, the CDC has recorded 71 human cases and two deaths linked to various outbreaks of the H5N1 virus.
In response to the recent cases, the GCHD asks residents of Galveston, Houston, and nearby areas:
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To avoid contact with dead or sick birds.
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To report any unusual findings to the Galveston County Animal Resource Center.
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To prevent children or pets from approaching birds without supervision.
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To keep cats indoors, if possible.
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To neither pick up nor touch birds that behave unusually.
Avian influenza in Galveston does not currently represent a mass outbreak, but experts agree that informed prevention is the best tool.
Houston, Mindful of the Regional Context
Although the focus is on Galveston, many people in the Houston metropolitan area frequently travel to nearby areas such as Dickinson, Galveston, or League City. Therefore, experts recommend staying informed through official channels such as the GCHD website and the Houston Public Health Department’s social media accounts.
“What we aim to do is raise awareness, not to cause alarm,” reiterated Keiser. “But it is important to act responsibly.”
