The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Flu (HPAI) in waterfowl. State Wildlife veterinarian Jim LaCour said it’s alarming because this highly contagious form of bird flu can be transmitted to other species.
“The biggest threat, however, is to poultry which is very susceptible to this virus, and it is highly fatal to the birds but also many birds in the houses with the infected chickens have to be destroyed.”
LaCour said bird flu can have a huge economic impact when chickens have to be destroyed.
The CDC said bird flu posed minimal dangers to hunters, but LaCour recommended taking extra precautions as you do with any raw meat.
“Don’t eat or drink when you’re cleaning these birds, so you don’t bring the blood and stuff up to your face. Make sure the meat is cooked to 165 degrees or more.”
And he advised not to feed any other animals’ waterfowl because bird flu can be passed on to them and not to leave a carcass out in the wild. Bag it up and take it to a landfill.
Bird flu cases have been detected among blue-winged teal ducks in southwest Louisiana and among captive birds in Monroe at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo.
If you come across any unexplained mortality among birds, LaCour asked that you contact LWDF.
“We’d sure be interested in getting a hold of those for testing so you can contact our regional offices, and they can help collect those birds and get them to us for testing.”
If you are a hunter who also has poultry LaCour recommended being extra cautious and to change out of your hunting clothes before interacting with them. Pathogens from bird flu can remain in water and soil for a prolonged period.
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