The Nevada Department of Wildlife Has Found That Wild Birds in the State Have a Very Contagious Form of Bird Flu

Author: Nevada Globe Staff

NEVADA – Wild waterfowl carry and spread this extremely contagious virus with no outward signs of sickness and a remarkably low fatality rate. Because it’s contagious, wildlife officials think it probably already exists in wild waterfowl populations all over the state.

The first confirmed case in Nevada was found in Carson City in a flock of pet birds. Since then, the disease has been found in several geese, ducks, and birds of prey in Reno and western Nevada.

Birds with high death rates include owls, raptors, grouse, eagles, and even backyard chickens, where the death rate can be as high as 95%. Cases have also been found in different kinds of mammals, so all mammals should be thought to be at risk.

Follow these steps to keep yourself, your pets, and your farm birds safe:

Never handle, consume or bring home sick or dead waterfowl
Harvest only birds that appear to act healthy
Wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning birds and do so in a well-ventilated area
Remove intestines and discard soon after harvesting and avoid direct contact with them
Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling carcasses
Wash hands after handling game and equipment
Cook all game to an internal temperature of 165F before consuming
Don’t let your dog come into contact with sick or dead birds that you have not harvested
Do not let your dog consume raw meat including waterfowl
If your dog becomes ill, seek veterinary care

Credits: FoxReno