North Dakota Monitors Bird Flu Outbreak During Fall Migration

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is actively monitoring reports of sick and dead birds across the state, responding to increasing concerns from the public. According to a news release, the likely cause of these incidents is the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), which has been confirmed through testing this fall.

Dr. Logan Weyand, wildlife veterinarian for the Game and Fish Department, noted that most of the recent reports involve snow geese and other waterfowl. This trend is not unexpected, as HPAI outbreaks are documented to coincide with the seasonal migrations of these species during this time of year.

In the past two weeks, the state has received numerous reports indicating a heightened presence of sick and deceased birds, raising alarms among both local residents and wildlife officials. The department emphasizes that while the risk of disease transmission to humans and pets is low, precautions should still be taken.

To minimize any potential health risks, the public is advised to limit contact with dead birds. If it becomes necessary to handle carcasses, individuals should wear disposable gloves and ensure they wash their hands and clothing afterward. Carcasses should be placed in a garbage bag and disposed of through a waste management provider to prevent further spread of the virus.

The Game and Fish Department is committed to providing up-to-date information on HPAI and its implications for both wildlife and public health. For further details, individuals can visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s website dedicated to avian influenza.

As the migration season continues, the Game and Fish Department will remain vigilant in monitoring the situation. This proactive approach aims to protect both avian populations and public health as the state navigates this challenging period.