What We Know: Health officials are warning Greene County residents to stay away from wild birds after suspected bird flu cases were reported in the county’s southeast.
What It Means: The Springfield-Greene County Health Department says the suspected cases involve waterfowl and follow four confirmed cases in neighboring Christian County.
Officials say the virus can spread through contact with infected birds, their droppings or contaminated areas.
Residents are being asked to keep pets away from wild birds and avoid touching dead or sick birds.
Anyone who spots a sick or dead wild bird can contact the Missouri Department of Conservation at 573-522-0142.
Health officials also say anyone who may have been exposed should watch for symptoms, including fever, coughing or pink eye, for 10 days.
(Graphic Courtesy of Springfield-Greene County Health Department)