In the past few years there has been a lot of news about the avian flu (HPAI-H5N1) and its impact on waterfowl, poultry, cattle and even humans, although rare. As pest control professionals we are an integral part of protecting human health and we wanted to share some information to keep you, your family and pets safer during this outbreak. Here are the facts about Bird Flu…
Facts About Bird Flu – Avian Flu (HPAI-H5N1)
As stated previously, the avian flu seems to be isolated to waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans) and other aquatic or shore birds. It is highly contagious and can quickly spread to domestic poultry populations along with domestic waterfowl. It is recommended to keep wild populations of waterfowl away from domestic waterfowl and poultry.
It is highly advisable not to handle dead, sick or injured birds for fear of contamination and potentially spreading the bird flu to domestic species.
In the event you find a dead bird, it is recommended to use gloves and a mask to dispose of the bird or to call our office to dispose of the carcass.
Currently there is no evidence that this strain of bird flu has transmitted to songbirds, but it is recommended to clean bird baths and bird feeders frequently and to keep wild populations of waterfowl away from these areas.
Dogs and cats can potentially get the avian flu just like humans, but this is also rare and most of the cases have been from the animals ingesting dead or dying birds that already have the avian flu. It is recommended to always keep pets away from wildlife and even more important now with the risk of avian flu, even though remote.
Pigeon Paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1)
On a second note, there is another virus Pigeon Paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) affecting Eurasian collared doves, which are a non-native game species in Southern Colorado. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has been monitoring the situation and thus far believes this will be isolated to this species of dove and it will run its course through the population. The same precaution to handling dead doves applies to the avian flu and transmission to humans is possible, but incredibly rare.
For more information regarding both viruses please visit Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Department of Agriculture and the https://www.cdc.gov/.