Geese At Beach In Alameda Test Positive For Bird Flu: Official

ALAMEDA, CA — Health officials said two geese recently tested positive for bird flu at Memorial State Beach in Alameda.

The risk to the general public remains low, but people can become sick if they come into contact with infected birds, according to the Alameda County Public Health Department.

The geese were "collected" on Oct. 8 and Oct. 12, health officials said. It's unclear whether any other birds have contracted the viral disease.

"The City is working with Alameda County Public Health, Alameda County Vector Control, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and East Bay Regional Park District to keep residents informed and share appropriate safety precautions," city officials said.

Health officials advised people visiting anywhere they may find birds to take the following precautions:

• Stay away from sick or dead birds
• Avoid bird droppings
• Keep children and pets away from wild birds
• Wash hands after possible contact with birds or bird droppings
• Do not feed wild birds
• Report dead or sick birds to the Alameda County Vector Control at 510-567-6800.