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 Influenza?
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a naturally occurring virus that circulates in migratory waterfowl every year. Some waterfowl may carry the virus and not display symptoms, while others become symptomatic and succumb to the disease. The designation of Highly pathogenic vs Low pathogenic was created by the USDA to signify how virulent (deadly) the disease is in domestic poultry.
Like human influenza, the virus changes from year to year. In recent years the virus has been especially virulent in raptors. Felines, mustelids (i.e. ferrets), dairy cattle, and humans have also been affected. Human cases are rare, but people working in higher risk occupations 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. The virus is extremely hardy and can spread from touching surfaces or objects. It can remain viable for weeks outside a host, even in cool temperatures.
Symptoms in wild birds include:
- Head twitching
- Lethargy
- Convulsions/seizures
- Rapid blinking
- Coughing or sneezing
- Open mouth breathing
- Diarrhea
For more information, see this official statement from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.