Indiana finds cases of bird flu in waterfowl

Bloomington, Indiana — The Indiana DNR has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) as the cause of death for multiple geese in Hamilton County.

Additionally, multiple blue-wing teal in Greene County were confirmed to have HPAI through surveillance conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services and DNR Division of Fish, Wildlife and Nature Preserves.

If you find wild waterfowl or raptors that are dead for no obvious reason or showing any of the following signs of illness, report it online at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife.

Signs of HPAI in waterfowl and raptors include: Sudden death, neurological impairment (e.g., lack of coordination, swimming or walking in circles, tremors, twisted neck), lack of energy and appetite, swelling of the head, neck, and eyes, nasal discharge, cough, sneezing, lack of coordination, and diarrhea.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk for HPAI is low. However, it is possible for humans to contract the disease. Members of the public should avoid contact with sick waterfowl and other sick wildlife whenever possible. If a carcass must be handled, wear disposable gloves and a mask, double-bag the carcass, and place it in the trash. Wash hands with soap and warm water immediately afterward.

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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommends that waterfowl hunters wear protective clothing such as face masks and gloves to process birds, and to do so in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Meat harvested from waterfowl should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees before consumption.

Contact the Indiana Department of Health if you develop any of the following symptoms after touching or handling sick or dead waterfowl: fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, shortness of breath, eye irritation or redness, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headaches, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, or rash. Indiana’s Health Department can be reached at 317-233-7125 during regular business hours, or at 317-233-1325 after hours. Follow the prompts in the automated menu to speak to the epidemiologist on call.

Some domestic and agricultural animals are also known to be susceptible to HPAI, including poultry, cattle, and cats. If you have these animals at home, be sure to process any harvested waterfowl away from your animals and practice good biosecurity measures.

For more information on HPAI and to track suspected cases across the state, visit on.IN.gov/avian-flu.