State provides tips to prevent spread of Bird Flu
File photo
This time of year, new cases of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) begin to emerge due to the high numbers of migratory waterfowl that pass through or congregate in North Carolina. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) monitors HPAI in wildlife populations across the state, with an emphasis on birds.
New cases of avian influenza emerge in the fall and winter months particularly along the Outer Banks and other coastal areas.
Influenza viruses are typically cold-hardy and are therefore able to proliferate more easily during the cold winter months. The birds most likely to be found with HPAI are waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors, although cases may less frequently occur in songbirds and wild mammal species.
Symptoms of HPAI in wild birds may vary, including ocular and/or nasal discharge, coughing, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of coordination, walking or swimming in circles, head and neck twisting/wobbling, paralysis, swollen and/or discolored neck, head, and feet and death.
The public can help reduce the spread of HPAI by following these suggestions:
• Do not approach any animals that appear sick or are behaving unusually.
• Do not allow pets to interact with any sick or dead animals.
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If a dead bird needs to be removed from a location where pets or people could come into contact with it:
• Use disposable gloves, a plastic bag or some other protective layer over your hands or use a shovel to pick up the animal and place it into a garbage bag. Consider wearing a face mask and eye protection if additional protection seems warranted.
• Double-bag the carcass before putting it in the trash.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after disposing of any animal carcass.
Currently, there are no changes to any game bird seasons due to HPAI. Hunters are advised not to harvest or handle game birds that are obviously sick. Hunters should wear gloves when handling and dressing any harvested birds, and inedible parts should be buried where they were harvested or placed in a trash bag and disposed of in the trash. Wash hands and tools with soap and water or disinfectant wipes. Cook all game meat thoroughly prior to consumption.
To report dead wild animals suspected of contracting HPAI, especially six or more dead wild birds in one area within a period of one to two weeks, contact the N.C. Wildlife Helpline at 866.318.2401 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
