Avian Flu Outbreak at Fort Flagler

Beloved Fort Flagler State Park, one of the best camping spots within an hour of Bainbridge Island, is experiencing a large avian flu outbreak with potential impacts on humans and other animals. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) issued a news release yesterday, Sept. 1, warning people to avoid contact with wild birds and wild animals in the area.

The outbreak, which started in early July, has resulted in the deaths of more than 1,700 Caspian terns and gulls. WDFW staff have removed the bodies from Rat Island and the shores of Marrowstone Island, where Fort Flagler is located. At least three harbor seals appear to be infected as well and are being further tested.

The flu outbreak spans a wider area, likely including shore areas of Everett, Tacoma, and the lower Columbia River. Both humans and dogs can be in infected by avian flu, although human infections are rare. People are encouraged to avoid dead sick or dead birds and to keep dogs away from them as well.

If you find a sick or dead bird in the affected area, report the finding to WDFW through this online form.

If you suspect avian influenza in your domestic poultry flock, report it via this online form.

You can find more avian flu information from the WDFW here.