Three geese found dead at Heartland of America Park near the Missouri River in downtown Omaha have tested positive for bird flu, according to the Douglas County Health Department. The incident unfolded as multiple reports of dead birds led officials to discover seven carcasses of geese in the park. On March 17, 2025, tests on three of the dead geese confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or H5N1, with results reported the following day.
Health officials noted that at the time of the discovery, an estimated 60 to 90 birds were present in the area, underlining the potential impact of the virus on local wildlife. In response to the discovery, the Douglas County Health Department is collaborating with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to closely monitor the situation and manage any potential risks to local wildlife, as well as addressing the minimal risks — albeit existing — to domestic pets and humans.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that since the virus was found in wild aquatic birds in the United States in January 2022, it has affected over 167 million wild birds and poultry across the country. The virus has also been detected in over a dozen mammal species, including raccoons, wild and domestic cats, and even sea lions. Strikingly, the virus was identified in dairy cattle for the first time in March 2024, with a total of 989 herds reported to be affected in 17 states—including some located in Iowa. Specific to Nebraska, health officials have confirmed two cases in backyard poultry this year, with six cases last year, the latest being reported from a commercial broiler flock in Johnson County in December 2024.
While avian influenza has not been identified in cattle or livestock in Nebraska, there is mounting concern following the confirmation of 70 cases in humans, most of whom were in contact with infected poultry or dairy cattle. Unfortunately, Iowa health officials confirmed one case in December 2024 involving an individual who became mildly symptomatic after exposure to infected poultry while working with a commercial flock in the northwestern part of the state.
Symptoms in humans can range from flu-like experiences of fever, cough, and sore throat to severe respiratory conditions, including pneumonia. Conjunctivitis, or red and watery eyes, has also been a frequently reported symptom among confirmed human cases. Though the CDC remains optimistic about public health, evaluating the risk as low, no cases of human-to-human transmission have been documented as of now.
Nebraska local health and wildlife officials have proactively offered a list of precautions for residents and their pets in the event of encountering sick or dead birds. Among their recommendations, residents are advised against direct contact with wildlife, especially if the animals appear sick or dead. Anyone handling birds or working in outdoor settings should wash their hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking.
Residents are encouraged to report sick or dead birds via the Avian Influenza webpage on the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website, OutdoorNebraska.gov, ensuring they do so in a responsible manner. Notably, residents should refrain from handling wildlife or taking sick birds home, as this can lead to potential further infections.
Given the virus's high fatality rate among specific domestic animals — particularly backyard poultry and cats — pet owners are urged to keep their animals away from sick birds and the surrounding areas. Immediate veterinary care should be obtained if pets display symptoms commonly associated with infections, such as fever, fatigue, inflamed eyes, difficulty breathing, or any neurological signs.
The Nebraska Humane Society can provide support for concerns surrounding pets or wildlife, reachable at 402-444-7800 for further guidance.
As the risk of avian influenza continues to loom, residents across Nebraska are reminded to take preventative measures seriously, mindful of the implications that this virus carries not only for wildlife but for overall public health as well.
