Monroe County health department reports slight rise in COVID-like emergency visits; avian influenza found in nearby backyard flock

The Monroe County health department told county commissioners on May 1 that emergency visits for COVID-like illness have increased slightly while wastewater concentrations continue to decrease and flu activity remains minimal.

Health department representative Kelly told the board that the Indiana State Department of Health had detected a highly pathogenic avian influenza strain in a noncommercial backyard flock in Porter County, affecting 360 birds; she said the public health risk remains low and that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring activity. Kelly also reminded residents that the county public health clinic offers vaccines for all ages and provided the appointment line: (812) 353-3244.

Commissioners thanked health staff and had no additional questions about the department's surveillance update.