Avian Influenza in the Environment
Avian influenza, also known as A(H5N1), Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), bird flu, or H5N1, is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can affect many species of animals, including birds, cattle, and humans. At this time, avian influenza strain H5N1 is widespread in wild birds and has been found in many poultry farms and dairy cattle in the United States. In Maryland, H5N1 has been found in poultry farms and in wild birds.
The CDC tracks confirmed human cases in the United States and has determined the risk to humans is low. There has been no documented person-to-person transmission.
University of Maryland
At this time, the risk to the University of Maryland community is considered low. ESSR works with campus stakeholders including the University Attending Veterinarian, University Health Center, Facilities Management, Residential Facilities, and University Farm staff. Together we assess the risks to our campus community, implementing exposure control measures, and preparing response protocols, if they are needed.
Occupational exposure control measures for faculty, staff, and students
The CDC provides published guidelines for evaluating specific work tasks to determine which activities present a low, medium, or high risk for exposure to the avian flu. Among the different work groups exposed to HPAI A(H5N1) viruses, the highest risk for HPAI A(H5N1) virus infection is from close, direct, unprotected contact with animals with confirmed or suspected HPAI A(H5N1) virus infection or their environments and exposure to contaminated raw cow’s milk from infected cows or other products made from contaminated raw cow’s milk.
UMD follows the CDC guidance based upon risk, for implementing protective measures, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workers who may encounter high exposure risk, medium exposure risks and those who work in a milking parlor.
Individuals who have an exposure risk through their research or work tasks, should notify their supervisor and engage with the ESSR. Contact askESSR@umd.edu or 301-405-3960.
Where an occupational risk of exposure exists, individuals will be enrolled in the University’s Respiratory Protection Program. This involves a health assessment at the University Health Center, training through ESSR’s Office of Occupational Safety and Health, and a respirator fit-test to ensure proper selection of an N95 respirator. In addition to respiratory protection, workers may be offered eye protection such as face shields or goggles as well as waterproof or water-resistant outerwear and footwear. Training will be provided to explain job-specific risks and controls and when to reach out for medical assistance.
Campus Community Awareness & Response
Consistent with standard reporting requirements, individuals should report sick or dead wildlife on campus, including birds, to Facilities Management Customer Response Center (FM CRC) 301-405-2222. Within University of Maryland operations, FM CRC and Department of Residential Facilities’ Urban Biology Manager will take appropriate action for any sick or dead wildlife found in accordance with their procedures. Do not attempt to handle sick or dead wildlife.
Faculty, staff and students who work with or care for our university animals are required to immediately report any illness of animals to the University Attending Veterinarian.
Reporting Concerns
For questions or non-urgent concerns, contact ESSR at askESSR@umd.edu. In emergencies or after hours, ESSR can be contacted through the University of Maryland Police Department (UMPD) by calling 301-405-3333 and reporting the issue. UMPD will contact the ESSR staff member available after hours for appropriate support.
Useful Links:
http://mda.maryland.gov/Pages/AvianFlu.aspx
Last Updated: 4/28/2025