Highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been confirmed in a bald eagle in Clarendon County, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the detection Wednesday, Nov. 4, identifying the virus as Eurasian H5 (EA H5). The finding comes as the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources warns residents about ongoing avian influenza activity across the state, particularly during seasonal bird migration.
In a statement released Friday, Nov. 6, SCDNR said the virus continues to affect multiple bird species, with waterbirds and birds of prey among those most frequently impacted.
The latest case is not Clarendon County's first encounter with the disease. USDA records show nine confirmed detections in wild birds in the county since January 2023, including two earlier this year.
Those detections involved a ring-necked duck and a green-winged teal confirmed positive in January and February. Previous cases included five wood ducks in early 2024 and an American white pelican in 2023.
Statewide, USDA surveillance data shows 275 confirmed detections in South Carolina since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022. The agency's latest 30-day surveillance map, covering samples collected Oct. 6 through Nov. 5, shows just one detection in South Carolina during that period. The newly confirmed Clarendon County bald eagle case is also the state's only detection listed with a November confirmation date in the accompanying USDA data.
Wild birds can carry avian influenza without showing signs of illness, allowing the virus to spread as they migrate. Infected birds can also expose domestic poultry to the disease, making continued surveillance important for wildlife officials and poultry producers.
According to SCDNR, infected birds may exhibit neurological symptoms, including unusual behavior and loss of coordination. There is currently no treatment or cure for the virus, and outbreaks in affected areas can persist for several weeks or months.
Wildlife officials are urging residents to avoid handling sick or dead wild birds and to keep pets away from affected animals. Carcasses should generally be left undisturbed, and anyone who must move or bury one should wear appropriate protective equipment. SCDNR does not provide carcass collection or removal services.
Although the risk of transmission to humans is considered low, officials continue to recommend avoiding direct contact with sick or dead birds. Additional information about potential human health risks and precautions is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
SCDNR said it will continue monitoring avian influenza activity in South Carolina's wild bird populations. Updated detection data and additional information are available through the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service at aphis.usda.gov.
