(Page Co) Page County Conservation and Public Health officials have confirmed the Highly Pathogenetic Avian Influenza in the migratory snow geese population that were at Rapp Park.
Officials say this is not an uncommon occurrence for wild birds to have Avian Influenza, however, they want to make sure to take extra precautions with their private flocks of domesticated birds since this is confirmed in Iowa and locally.
Everyone is encouraged to use extra precautions when handling wild game, especially during processing. HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these Avian Influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. It remains safe to eat poultry products.
HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys. The virus can spread through droppings or nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.
Clinical signs of the disease include Sudden death, Decreased water consumption, Lack of energy and appetite, Soft or thin-shelled or misshapen eggs, Swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, hocks, Purple/blue discoloration of wattle, comb, and/or legs, Difficulty breathing, Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, Stumbling or falling down, Diarrhea, Decrease in egg production.
All bird owners, including backyard flock owners, should practice good biosecurity, prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual deaths to state/federal officials.
