Avian flu: NGPC discusses illness, impact on Nebraska’s wildlife and poultry
As birds congregate and migrate, the avian flu spreads across the United States and it's present in Nebraska.
By News Channel NebraskaLINCOLN, Neb - When sick, one of the last things anyone wants to do is spread their illness, but that’s a bit more difficult when it comes to birds. As they congregate and migrate the avian flu spreads across the United States and it's present in Nebraska.
“It’s here,” Todd Nordeen said. “It’s a disease that doesn’t affect just wildlife, but domestic flocks as well. Our NDA and USDA folks have been an integral part of covering the disease outbreak over the last few years in Nebraska.”
Todd Norden is the Big Game and Disease Research Manager for Nebraska Game and Parks. He noted a few warning signs in birds that can signify avian flu.
“Lethargic activities, erratic swimming or walking, neck can be tilted in an odd way,” Nordeen said. “Those are some of the things in the wild people can watch out for as they’re out and about.”
In both wild and domestic cases, one of the main bird families impacted by the disease are waterfowl. Traveling in big groups, congregating in small spaces, and migrating long distances all contribute to the spread. For example, Snow Geese in Nebraska, which often fill small bodies of water with hundreds and thousands of individual birds.
In addition to waterfowl, Nordeen says raptors are also at risk.
“We have seen it impact raptors, more so than other species,” Nordeen said. “Primarily though, waterfowl is the biggest thing we keep an eye on.”
Nordeen says avian flu risk to humans is low, but it’s never zero. In late November, a case was reported in a backyard flock in Colfax County. As the disease makes its way into backyard flocks, he provided tips on how to safely work with birdds when needed.
“It seems to be low risk to humans, BUT, it’s always best to wear Personal Protection Equipment,” Nordeen said. “Latex gloves, masks, etc. to avoid human risk of getting it. Don’t handle birds without PPE or hold them close to yourself where you might get some of the pathogens spread to your clothing and so fourth too.”