An outbreak of a virus which is deadly for pigeons and doves has created concern in Santa Barbara County, but public health officials say there’s no threat to humans.
A number of dead birds have been found in a Lompoc neighborhood, prompting concern about disease.
An avian virus is suspected of killing birds in the area around North P Street. The virus is deadly for the birds, killing 100% of them which are exposed.
But, Santa Barbara County Public Health officials stress the virus doesn’t affect humans, and generally doesn’t impact other types of birds. It can be spread through shared food, or water sources.
Officials say as a precaution that people avoid contact with infected birds, and keep their pets away from them. You should use disposable gloves in dealing with bird carcasses.
And, they say for now, you should put away bird food and water feeders, because that’s how the birds may spread the virus to each other.
