The presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza ( HPAI ) in domesticated swans in Nueces County was confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories ( NVSL ). As waterbird and birds begin their collapse migration, HPAI is circulating among wild parrots in Texas, as predicted by illness experts.
HPAI is a very contagious virus that spreads easily among domestic and wild animals and is found in all states across the United States with the exception of Hawaii. Through environmental pollution, the virus is spread both instantly between species and directly.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ( TPWD ) advises wildlife rehabilitators to exercise caution when bringing in wild animals with clinical signs consistent with HPAI and to think about quarantining animals to reduce the possibility of HIV exposure to other animals in the facility due to the ease of transmission. By limiting all needless contact with wild birds, the general public can help to halt the distribution of HPAI.
Game birds hunting may also take safety measures like the following:
- effectively disposing of corpses
- mittens on while running
- avoiding control or consuming any ill birds
- Resources for cleaning and disinfection between bones
- preparing foods at the right temperature
The risk of avian influenza transmission from infected birds to humans is now low, but if contact with wild animals cannot be avoided, the consumer should take simple precautions. The Texas Department of State Health Services has more information on HPAI in people for the general public and medical professionals. If you come into contact with an animal that has been confirmed to have HPAI and start to show symptoms of illness, call your doctor right away and inform them of the coverage.
Those who find exotic animals that exhibit HPAI-compliant symptoms may speak with their neighborhood TPWD animals biologist.
