The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed two additional findings of highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild birds, according to a Jan 18 press release.
The two cases, one in Colleton County, South Carolina, and one in Hyde County, North Carolina, come after HPAI was confirmed in a wild bird in Colleton County on Jan. 14.
“In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to State/Federal officials, either through their state veterinarian or through USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593,” the press release states.
The two new cases are not unusual, given that wild birds can be afflicted with HPAI and display minimal symptoms while transmitting the disease during migration.
APHIS estimates that further wild bird discoveries will be made as its wild bird sampling program continues throughout the spring; weekly updates will be provided on its website.
Because wild birds can be infected with these viruses without showing symptoms, the USDA urges people to use gloves when coming into touch with wild birds.
Individuals who come into touch with healthy domestic poultry and birds are urged to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water and change their clothes prior to any encounter.
Hunters are also urged to clean wild game birds wherever feasible and to use good hygiene to prevent the spread of disease.
