What to do if you find a bird with avian flu symptoms
1 – Do not touch the bird!
2 – If the bird is a raptor in the Eugene/Springfield area, call us at (541) 485-1320 ext. 1 to speak with clinic staff.
3 – Report the sighting. This helps the state monitor the virus’s spread.
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- For wild birds, call ODFW at (866) 968-2600 or e-mail [email protected].
- For poultry, call ODA at (503) 986-4711.
But what about the sick bird? Unfortunately, there is very little that can be done for infected birds. Their chance of recovery is poor and wildlife hospitals must euthanize them immediately, as they are at extremely high risk for spreading the virus to other birds on site.
What is avian flu?
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a naturally occurring virus that is very deadly to raptors and domestic poultry. The current variant has also been known to affect felines and cattle. Waterfowl are the biggest carriers of the virus, even though they may not display symptoms. Human cases are rare, but people working around animals are advised to take protective measures to prevent exposure.
Avian flu is usually transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the droppings of an infected bird. It can also be carried in an infected bird’s saliva or nasal mucus.
It is very easy to spread from one surface to another and can remain viable for weeks outside a host, even in cool temperatures.
Symptoms include:
- Lack of coordination
- Lethargy
- Convulsions
- Head twitching
- Coughing or sneezing
- Gasping
- Diarrhea
For more information, see this official statement from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.