NORTH CHARLESTON, SC —
A public health advisory has been issued at a park in North Charleston, South Carolina, after ducks and geese were found dead in a pond.
The North Charleston Police Department has issued an advisory regarding Quarterman’s Pond.
The pond is located in Quarterman Park along Buist Avenue.
The notice stated that several dead geese and ducks had recently been removed from the pond.
The suspected cause is believed to be avian flu, also known as bird flu.
“With ongoing seasonal bird migration, cases of avian influenza may increase,” the advisory said. “Although the risk to dogs is considered low, the virus can affect other animals and, in some cases, humans. Owners of backyard poultry should be especially vigilant.”
The city offers the following tips to protect yourself and your pets:
- Avoid touching or handling dead or sick birds.
- Keep dogs and other pets away from dead or visibly sick wildlife.
- Do not let pets eat dead birds or other wildlife.
Officials say backyard poultry owners should monitor their flocks for signs of illness and follow the advice of state animal health officials.
If you encounter dead or sick birds at Quarterman’s Pond, leave them alone and notify North Charleston Animal Control.
The city will continue to monitor the situation and share additional information as it becomes available.
Gn Health
