Press Releases
Risk of Human Bird Flu Infection is Low
With bird flu being in the national headlines lately, the Oneida County Health Department is offering education and safety tips and reassuring the public that the risk of human infection is low. Avian influenza, bird flu, or H5N1 refers to a group of viruses that usually spreads between birds. These viruses range from limited impact to large numbers of illness and death of birds. This virus is circulating worldwide in birds and is causing outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows in the United States. This virus has also infected several humans nationwide.
Oneida County Health Department Issues Warning Regarding Sudden Uptick in Severe Respiratory Illnesses
Oneida County is currently seeing an increase in respiratory illnesses following the New Year.
“As of December 28th, Oneida County has had 386 flu cases reported since the flu season began,” said Daniel
W. Gilmore, Ph.D., MPH, Oneida County Director of Health. “This, coupled with concerns of COVID-19 and
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), makes it extremely important to protect yourself and your family this winter
season.”
Oneida County Health Department Raises Flu Vaccine Awareness
It’s time for you to get your flu shot if you haven’t already. The holiday season is upon us, and it is important to take measures to keep yourself and your family healthy this season. As of November 23rd, Oneida County has had 152 flu cases reported since the flu season began this fall. This, coupled with concerns of COVID-19 and RSV, makes it extremely important to protect yourself and your family this winter season. Everyone 6 months or older can receive a flu shot. Those with weakened immune systems, young children and pregnant people are at higher risk of serious illness and the flu shot is the best way to reduce the risks.
Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in New York Mills
A bat has tested positive for rabies in New York Mills. The bat was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on November 26, 2024 and positive results were reported on November 27, 2024. One person was exposed to the bat and received post exposure prophylaxis.
Fox Tests Positive for Rabies in City of Rome
A fox has tested positive for rabies in Rome. The fox was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on November 13, 2024, and positive results were reported on November 14, 2024. There were exposures to the fox.
Signs of
Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Utica
A bat has tested positive for rabies in Utica. The bat was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on October 28, 2024 and positive results were reported on November 1, 2024. One person was exposed to the bat and received post exposure prophylaxis.
