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Bird Virus Detected in Wastewater: How Serious Is It?

Bird Virus Detected in Wastewater: How Serious Is It?

In shocking news, the CDC reported that 53 wastewater sampling sites detected the bird virus in county wastewater across the U.S. A majority of these sites detected the virus in the west coast. California recently declared a state of emergency after the bird virus was detected in dairy cows on farms in Southern California. With reports of an elderly man sadly succumbing to the illness in Louisiana and concerns rising about potential health risks to pets, it’s time to take a closer look at the implications of this epidemic bird flu outbreak.

What is the Bird Virus?

Health officials call it the H5N1 avian flu virus, but we know it as the bird flu. It’s a highly contagious strain that primarily affects birds but can potentially infect humans and other animals. The World Health Organization has said that since 2003, about half of the 900 people infected with bird flu have died. Recent wastewater surveillance efforts by the CDC wastewater surveillance program have revealed its presence in various regions now in 2025, raising public health concerns.

This chart shows national trends of wastewater viral activity levels of influenza A (bird flu).
Source:
CDC, National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS).

Bird Flu Wastewater viral activity levels across the United States.
Source:
CDC, National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS).

The CDC bird flu map shows that the wastewater viral activity level is high nationally. CDC and their public health partners play crucial roles in identifying potential hotspots. 

Key Facts About the H5N1 Avian Flu Virus:

  • First identified in the late 1990s

  • Spread primarily through direct contact with infected birds

  • Can survive in water and on surfaces for extended periods

  • Symptoms in humans range from mild to severe respiratory issues

16 States Affected by the Bird Flu

An alarming total of 16 states have detected bird flu in their wastewater, cattle, chicken, or infected humans. Bird flu is spreading rapidly, at a rate that health officials haven’t seen since its discovery over 20 years ago.

California Declares a State of Emergency

In December 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in California. The California cattle industry and poultry farms are on high alert as several herds and flocks.

What Does a State of Emergency Mean for You?

  • Turkey and chicken products including eggs will likely increase in cost at the grocery store

  • Possible restrictions on poultry trade and transportation

Bird Flu in Arizona

Neighboring states, including Arizona, have also reported traces of the bird flu virus through wastewater testing. The presence of bird flu in AZ is particularly concerning due to the accessibility of wastewater and the number of poultry farms in the area. Wastewater can include the dog bowl, bird bath, bath water, water used for your car wash, and more.

Health Risks to Pets and Families

As cases rise, many homeowners and pet owners ask: Can bird flu spread through water? The short answer is yes, contaminated water is potentially risky, and clean drinking water is essential.

How to Protect Your Household:

  1. Install a Water Filtration System:

  2. Regularly Monitor Your Water Quality:

  3. Consider UV Water Treatment:

How Bird Flu Spreads Through Water

If infected birds shed or die in a body of water, avian flu can very easily spread to outdoor cats, dogs, and other household pets. The virus can survive in untreated water for days, posing a risk to animals and humans.

What to do & what not to do:

  • Avoid letting pets drink from standing water sources

  • Ensure proper filtration and disinfection of drinking water

  • Maintain good hygiene when handling pets


Related Reading: How Wastewater Impacts Your Family

Related Reading: The Real Risk of PFAS in Base Water

FAQs About Bird Flu

Is bird flu detected in wastewater?
Yes, recent reports have confirmed its presence in wastewater across multiple states.

Can bird flu spread through water?
Yes, contaminated water can transmit the virus to both humans and animals.

What is the main thing that causes bird flu?
Direct contact with infected birds, contaminated surfaces, and water sources are the primary causes.

How long does bird flu live on surfaces?
The virus can survive for several days on surfaces, depending on temperature and humidity.

Stay Informed and Protected

With the bird virus spreading rapidly and dangerously, it’s more important than ever to take proactive measures to protect your household. Investing in high-quality water filtration systems like reverse osmosis systems can provide peace of mind, knowing your drinking water is safe and free from contaminants.

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