NEW YORK STATE (WENY) -- Cases of the Avian Flu, also known as the Bird Flu, have seen a rise in cases across the United States.  Dozens of cases have also been detected in birds in the Twin Tiers.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Avian Flu in birds in every Twin Tiers county except Tioga County, NY and Bradford County, PA.

Avian Flu Cases in the Twin Tiers

  • Yates County, NY: 35 cases
  • Tompkins County, NY: 16 cases
  • Steuben County, NY: 4 cases
  • Tioga County, PA: 3 cases
  • Chemung County, NY: 2 cases
  • Schuyler County, NY: 1 case
  • Potter County, PA: 1 case

Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand called upon the federal government to take action against the rise in cases.  She said she's concerned the federal cuts to the United States Department of Agriculture leave the country unprepared to fight another outbreak.

"With the COVID-19 Pandemic barely behind us, we simply cannot afford to let Bird Flu spread," Gillibrand said.  Adding, "I will keep working with my colleagues in Congress to develop a comprehensive response to this epidemic, and I will be monitoring the situation closely to identify our next steps forward"

Gillibrand suggested the federal government should focus on developing vaccines, and working with US trade partners to combat the Bird Flu.  

New York State is already addressing the issue, requiring poultry farmers to report and test any birds that show symptoms, among other precautions.

Despite the rise in cases, the CDC continues to maintain the threat to people remains low.

To track Avian Flu cases in the Twin Tiers and across the country, you can use the CDC's interactive map found here.