A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a discussion led by Dr. Brock, an expert in emergency management and environmental health, on the implications of avian flu in the region. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain, which has been found in Cape Cod, poses a potential risk to both wildlife and humans. Dr. Brock detailed the situation, highlighting that the initial alert was triggered by reports of 60 to 80 swans and geese affected in Plymouth. Subsequent investigations revealed further cases in backyard farms across the Cape.

Dr. Brock emphasized the virus’s high fatality rate in humans, over 90%, although human-to-human transmission remains rare. The risk lies in direct contact with infected birds or their excrement, and the potential for the virus to mutate into a form that could spread more easily between humans. She cited cases in Canada and Louisiana to underline the unpredictability of transmission routes. Dr. Brock stated, “It is probably going to happen; it’s just a matter of time,” in reference to the risk of mutation.

Concerns were raised about the current policies for handling avian flu, particularly the inadequacy of guidelines for managing sick or deceased birds. Dr. Brock suggested that public works departments need to be more engaged in surveillance and that clearer guidance should be provided. The discussion also covered the importance of involving local wildlife rehabilitators and the state health departments in monitoring efforts.

Wildlife rehabilitators shared data during the meeting, noting that 16.9% of birds tested were positive for avian flu. There was consensus on the need for better public education, with suggestions for distributing informative materials in public spaces like libraries and community centers. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health had recently issued an advisory to enhance surveillance for human infections, which was critiqued for its timing.

The Board of Health also addressed the progress of the Green Home burial bylaws. Legal review is pending, but drafts have already been reviewed and endorsed by the Building Department and the Conservation Commission. Once legal approval is secured, the Board plans to set a date for a public hearing, potentially as early as March. Mary Craig noted the importance of preventing departmental conflicts as the bylaw develops.

In addition to these discussions, the meeting touched on the Cranberry Bog situation, with a court date set for February 24. The Building and Plumbing Departments have issued several permits for deconstruction, but a permit for abandoning the current septic system is still required.

Other topics included the potential impact of proposed plastic reduction bylaws, with suggestions to form a working group for stakeholder input. Discussions highlighted the importance of community involvement and education before implementing new regulations. Incentives for businesses to adopt greener practices were considered, with a focus on aligning efforts with local and federal policies.

The Board also reviewed various permits and licensing updates for food establishments, emphasizing the importance of compliance and collaboration with local businesses. The need for increased surveillance and proactive measures in short-term rental regulations was discussed, with a spotlight on the challenges of ensuring compliance in a largely honor-based system.