MDC encourages awareness of “bird flu” as fall migration begins

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — As fall waterfowl migration gets underway, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters and the public to watch for signs of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly called “bird flu,” in wild birds.

MDC is aware of some positive cases in Missouri. Although Missouri is not currently experiencing a major outbreak in wild birds, MDC continues to monitor disease activity and encourages the public to report sick or dead waterfowl, such as wild ducks and geese, as well as raptors and other large birds.

Migratory birds can carry avian influenza as they travel along North American flyways. The virus spreads among birds through contact with infected feces, saliva, or nasal discharges and can move between wild birds and domestic poultry.

HPAI has not been detected in songbirds in Missouri. These species are not considered a significant concern regarding the virus. 

Signs of illness may include tremors, head tilting, lethargy, loss of coordination, inability to fly or walk properly, or trouble standing upright. Anyone observing wild birds exhibiting these signs should keep their distance.

Report the sighting to MDC Online Wildlife Health Event Reporting at mdc12.mdc.mo.gov/applications/WildlifeHealthReporting. Reports help MDC identify affected areas and determine where further investigation or testing may be needed.

MDC encourages hunters and others to take the following precautions:

Hunters:

• Dress harvested game birds in the field or in an area away from poultry and other birds.
• Dispose of carcasses and waste properly. Seal in trash bags and place in household trash or at a permitted landfill. Proper disposal helps protect raptors, including bald eagles, which are often scavengers and are highly susceptible to avian influenza. 
• Allow all hunting gear, boats, and waders to dry completely between trips to help prevent spreading the virus between locations.

Public:

• Avoid touching dead or sick birds.
• Report sightings of dead geese, other waterfowl, raptors, or other large birds to mdc12.mdc.mo.gov/applications/WildlifeHealthReporting.
• Keep pets away from dead or dying wildlife.
• If needing to handle a dead bird, wear gloves (disposable if available), consider a face mask, and wash hands thoroughly when done.

HPAI infections in humans are rare. Contact a healthcare provider if experiencing any unusual symptoms of possible infection, such as eye redness, respiratory problems, and fever. It is safe to eat properly handled and cooked poultry. Cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165°F helps destroy the virus if present.

Get more information on HPAI and HPAI in domestic poultry from the Missouri Department of Agriculture at agriculture.mo.gov/avian-influenza.php.