With the continued presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds in North Dakota, North Dakota State University Extension specialists continue to encourage biosecurity practices for bird owners of all sizes and around wild birds. North Dakota has had no positive domestic cases since April. However, with positive cases occurring currently in Canada, the risk of transmission will increase as fall migration continues.
Hunters participating in fall season should be aware of the risk of HPAI in wildlife and use measures to prevent transmission to domestic poultry flocks. Sick wildlife will display neurological symptoms. Hunters of wild birds are more likely to have increased exposure to the virus, which may increase risk of infection,” says Dr. Gerald Stokka, NDSU Extension veterinarian and livestock stewardship specialist. “Hunters should dress game birds in the field when possible and practice good biosecurity to prevent any potential disease spread.”
“Dogs are not at high risk to contract the virus,” says Dr. Stokka. “However, there have been documented cases of dogs transmitting HPAI to domestic flocks. If your dog has interacted with wildlife, take measures to keep them away from poultry.”
“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk from the current HPAI outbreak is low,” says Miranda Meehan, NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist. “People should not handle dead wild birds and also should avoid transporting sick or dead birds.”
“If you hunt and have domestic poultry and birds, do not wear hunting clothes while you are in with your birds,” says Meehan. “Infected birds shed bird flu viruses in their saliva, mucous and feces.”
One of the first clinical signs for domestic birds is sudden, unexplained death. Most HPAI cases are reporting a decline in water consumption up to 72 hours prior to the unexplained death. Decreased egg production and depression in layers may be another sign that birds are not feeling well. Purple or dry combs, being quieter than normal, frequent laying down and swelling around eyes are other symptoms birds may experience. Chickens and turkeys are most susceptible to HPAI. Waterfowl such as geese and ducks carry the virus and spread it to other birds.
“The best defense against HPAI is having a biosecurity plan in place,” says Mary Keena, NDSU Extension livestock environmental management specialist. “A biosecurity plan is critical in protecting your birds. It is your job as a flock owner to create a line of separation between your clean flock and the potential unclean issues that wildlife or visitors may bring.”
Source: ndsu.edu
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Poultry