Dead birds in Monroe test positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, officials say risk to public is low

Dead birds collected at Lake Tye Park in Monroe have preliminarily tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), according to the Snohomish County Health Department. The virus occurs naturally among wild birds and can cause severe illness and high mortality in domestic poultry such as chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks.

Health officials emphasized that transmission to humans is uncommon and that the overall risk to the public is low. However, individuals with direct exposure to infected birds – including backyard flock owners and anyone handling sick or dead birds – face a higher risk and are advised to monitor for symptoms.

Two workers from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife collected the dead birds while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, following agency and veterinary guidance. They will self-monitor for any signs of illness.

The department said there is currently no evidence of broader community spread and no other HPAI cases have been identified in Snoomish County. The Washington State Department of Health provides guidance on its website for reporting suspected sick birds and protecting oneself, and the state maintains an Avian Influenza Outbreak Map to track detections.

Officials urged residents to report sudden deaths or illness in domestic flocks to the Washington State Department of Agriculture Sick Bird Hotline at 800-606-3056 or via the agency’s online reporting tool. If birds have died, they should be double-bagged, placed in a cooler with ice, and left for collection by the department; scavenger birds should be kept away from carcasses to prevent further spread. The public is advised not to touch or move dead wild birds.