Missouri suspects possible bird flu outbreak in sick, dead waterfowl

The MDC is investigating reports of sick and dead ducks and geese across the state and is actively collecting birds. The department suspects the cause of illness is highly pathogenic avian influenza. Other states including Kansas and Iowa are encountering the same thing.

Avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, is not an immediate public health concern. The illness is spread as birds in “North American flyways intermingle with infected birds from Europe and Asia,” according to the press release, and there is a risk that the virus can spill from wild birds to domesticated poultry, then from domesticated poultry back to wild birds. The virus is transmitted bird-to-bird through feces, saliva and nasal discharges.

The MDC recommends the following:

• Do not touch dead geese, waterfowl or other bird species;
• Report any sightings of dead geese to MDC online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4KD;
• Ensure that pets do not come into contact with dead animals to help prevent the spread of disease;
• If you have inadvertently come into contact with a dead goose, wash your hands thoroughly and contact a healthcare professional if you experience any unusual symptoms.